Growing My Faith While In School

It’s truly inspiring to hear how many of us are actively seeking to grow our faith, especially during the whirlwind of college life. Like many, I’ve found that while college presents incredible opportunities, it also comes with unique challenges for maintaining and deepening a spiritual connection. When I first started out, figuring out how to balance academics, social life, and my walk with God felt a bit overwhelming, but I’ve discovered some practical ways to keep my faith thriving. One of the biggest questions I had, and I’m sure many others do too, is about reading the Bible. As someone who wasn’t raised religiously and is growing a new relationship with Jesus, figuring out where to start with the Bible can feel daunting. I’ve found a few simple approaches that make a huge difference in my daily ‘Reading’ time. First, don't feel like you have to read it cover-to-cover immediately. Starting with the New Testament, especially the Gospels like John or Mark, provides a wonderful introduction to Jesus’ life and teachings. Another helpful tip is to use a good study Bible or a devotional app alongside your reading. They often offer context and reflections that make the ancient texts more relatable to our modern lives. I also love the SOAP method: Scripture (read a passage), Observation (what stood out?), Application (how does it apply to my life?), and Prayer (pray about what you've read). This helps me engage more deeply rather than just skimming. Even dedicating 10-15 minutes consistently each day is more impactful than trying to cram in an hour once a week. Beyond just reading, I've been exploring different ways that I try to grow my faith while in college. My ministry group has been a blessing, but there's so much more. Developing a personal prayer life, beyond just asking for things, has transformed my relationship with God. I try to turn my everyday thoughts into prayers – whether it's gratitude, asking for guidance on an assignment, or praying for a friend. It's about constant, open communication. I’ve also found a lot of peace in Christian music and podcasts; they’re great for when I’m walking to class or need a spiritual boost while studying. Serving others, even in small ways within my university community, helps me put my faith into action and see God working through me. Lastly, having an accountability partner or a mentor, perhaps an older student or someone from my ministry, has been invaluable. We encourage each other, share what we’re learning, and pray for one another, which truly strengthens my commitment.