I KNOW...
by Ryan Faison
@RyanFaison
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. - Jeremiah 29:11
WELCOME TO THE COLLEGE PREP 101 BLOG!
Welcome to the Quest College Ministry College Prep 101 blog! This blog is specifically designed to equip and encourage you as you start a new semester! For some of you, you will be returning back to campus. For others, this will be the first time you step foot in a campus dorm or a college lecture hall. Whether it is your first year or last year in college, it is natural to have emotions that vary from nervousness to excitement. You may even feel an inward pressure to know every step you need to take and every plan for your academic future. Before moving forward in your goals and plans, you need to know that "I KNOW".
I KNOW
Jeremiah 29:11 is one of the most encouraging portions of Scripture. The passage begins by declaring through the prophet Jeremiah, "For I know...". As a college student, you may ask yourself, "Does God know what I'm going through?" or "God, do you see the mess I'm in?" or even "Lord, do you know me?". The Scripture emphasizes that God knows the plans He has for you! He is not oblivious to your situation or ignorant of your circumstances. He knows exactly what will give you a future and a hope right where you are!
TURNING TO GOD
The prophet Jeremiah was declaring this word over exiles in Babylon who once lived in Judah. They missed their land, but were instructed on how to behave in this new land, which was considered pagan and filled with false prophets. Jeremiah encourages them not to look at their circumstances or even what the false prophets were saying. Rather, Jeremiah declared that God knew the plans He had for the exiles and when they return to God, they will be returned to their land. The larger purpose of the exile was to turn their hearts to God.
GOD KNOWS
Your college education and experience is not limited to taking classes or preparing for a successful career. College is a great opportunity for you to grow deeper with God, who says I KNOW. He says I KNOW you and the plans I have for you. Don't listen to the naysayers or critics, for they don't know! God says I KNOW! Your future is not dependent on those with limited information and no revelation. God says I KNOW! As you begin your semester, turn your heart to the One who knows, who sees, who hears and who can deliver! Keep this portion of Scripture (Jeremiah 29:11) in your heart, memorize it and declare it every morning before going to class.
Remember: God is with you and He said "I KNOW..."
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Ryan Faison is the Director of the Quest College Ministry and Young Adults Ministry at Christ Church (Montclair & Rockaway, NJ). Ryan serves on the church's preaching team and as a worship leader. Ryan serves on the board of Nyack Alliance Theological Seminary Alumni Association (ATSAA). Ryan and his wife, Kristyn, loves to travel, connect with young adults and see this generation reach their full potential in Christ!
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