Graduating from college can bring upon a plethora of changes to a person’s life; interviewing for jobs, applying to graduate school, relocating, finding new roommates, moving to a new apartment, buying a car, paying back student loans, and the list could go on. Obviously this list differs from person to person, but without a doubt every person’s life will be different in some way or another as a post-grad.
I knew I would meet resistance in trying to start a Bible study in my sorority, but I didn’t think I would meet it so early on. And especially not from my fellow Christian community.
Since Marquette U. recruitment was in the winter instead of the fall, I had already planted some roots at school. But my roots didn’t seem so interested in my idea of joining a sorority in hopes of building relationships and eventually starting a Bible study.
Fat, skinny, gullible, strong-willed, pretty, flighty, short, worthless, crazy, boring...
...the world loves to tell us who we are, and even more-so: who we're NOT. But with the passing trends, worldwide confusion, and anxiety rates floating through the roof - where is it we're to look? Who are we meant to be... simply what others stamp us as?
As I attempt to embark on this journey of untangling the human feeling of uncertainty, I am cuddled up on this chilly November day with my Bible and cup of coffee with Hillsong Worship's "Seasons" playing in the background - can you picture it?
One of the most popular questions I have been getting lately is one I don't have a straight answer to. When I read "How can I grow closer to Jesus?" my heart leaps, excited that people want to pursue Jesus, but I get all kinds of nervous as I type out a reply because honestly?
It's up to YOU. Yup, you read that right! Growing closer to Jesus is 100% up to you.
Does what I believe in really make a difference?
When reading this question, your immediate response, as a Christian, will most probably be an enthusiastic: Yes. Of course!
First, I agree with you. Second, let’s dig deeper. Because I think the answer to this question will prove itself vital and inherent to the way we continue to live our lives.
It’s no secret, being humans, that we were born impatient. We want what we want, and we want it now. We hate lines, we hate waiting for packages to arrive in the mail after a day of exciting online shopping, and we hate waiting for the clock to hit 5 o’clock to go home after a long day of work. Whether we hide it well it or not, we all know waiting is hard.
Best known for her powerhouse vocals as a finalist in season eight of “American Idol,” Jasmine Murray was named Miss Mississippi and placed top 10 in Miss America 2015. Now at 26, she’s inspiring audiences not only with her fresh pop sound but with a profound message of hope as an artist and songwriter.
“I feel like I'm on a journey, and it’s a privilege to be able to share that with people,” she says. “I know this is my purpose. I'm where I’m supposed to be. I want to reach people with the message God’s given me.”
I’ve failed more than a couple of tests over the years because my faith and trust in God was sub-par.
My response to uncomfortable situations was running for the first exit sign or kicking and screaming, figuratively of course. I’ve missed the opportunity to grow in my faith so many times and with that I've struggled with having a joyful heart no matter what is going on in my life.
Have you felt like throwing in the towel?
Wondering if you’ve missed it because nothing worthwhile seems to be happening anymore?
Have you ever felt everything was going opposite the Lord’s promises?
These tough times, when we don't know if we'll make it through, are the times when our true motives and resolve are tested. What is truly in our hearts is brought to the surface and God wants to bring beauty out of the ashes.