High school students can find stress in many aspects of their lives, including tests, extracurricular activities, family and finding their path to college, so it can be difficult for faithful individuals to make space for Jesus. Students can even feel a loss of touch with God, due to the exhaustion of the world.
“I would say worldly desires and basically day-to-day life [affect my faith negatively]. School really drains my energy, so when I get home, all I want to do is just be on my phone or sleep, and I kind of put God and reading my Bible aside,” Senior Gabriella Pattillo said.
While there are still just regular students, it can be a lot to handle life and a consistent faith. For example, many want to find a group once they hit high school. The morals curated before may start to be devalued, so they can fit in. However, followers of Jesus are called to stand out from the crowds and reflect what God has called us to be: “joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer,” Romans 12:12. It is important that not only these values, but the fruits of the spirit are shown through one’s personality.
“You want to find a clique that you fit in with, and sometimes you’re willing to put aside your values to find people that you can hang out with. There’s a quote that I like, and it says ‘Don’t let the world change you when you were born to change the world,” Senior Kaylee Hansen said.
Stay Firm In Your Faith
There should be a certain level of confidence one has in what they believe in, and the maturity to rise above everything that they face in high school. Mockery and judgment might come around from time to time, but staying strong and not caving in on one’s values will help them build a stronger faith. “So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter,” 2 Thessalonians 2:15.
“At the beginning of high school, I used to always try to fit in and be with the crowd. But as I’ve grown my faith, I’ve really realized that’s not what it should be. So, I’ve grown to not do that, and I live for God and how I should live instead of trying to fit in with the crowd,” Pattillo said.
Surround Yourself With Good Company
High schoolers who hang out with their peers might align themselves with people who do no good for them, and will make them struggle in having a consistent faith. “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” 1 Corinthians 15. It is helpful to find like-minded people, so that when one struggles, they can receive help from their community. Places like Youth Group (a ministry for teenagers to foster their faith and find a community) can help high schoolers find people their age with the same goals and struggles. Students can find people who hold them accountable, instead of their mistakes being ignored.
“I meet with people who have the same values as me because I feel like it’s important to group with people who aren’t perfect and know that they aren’t perfect, but you can all strive to be better together. It’s good to have a community where you can all build each other up and help really get back on the path when you fall off,” Hansen said.
Make Time For God
Lastly, students should indulge in any time they have with Jesus. Finding little moments to pray over the stress or excitement in their life can be uplifting. However, if one is at 15% God will be the other 85%, being there for their low moments. No matter where you are in life, he will match your energy. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16.
“Just pray, just keep on praying. I know it’s hard sometimes, but even just sitting down for a minute and talking to God, really does help,” Pattillo said.
So, through the many things students conquer in high school, they can depend on God to guide them through it. Nobody is ever alone with their struggles or accomplishments, so continue to pray about everything. Invite friends and family to come together to pray and speak about the word of God together, this will help students keep their minds and spirits fresh of what brings them down. Lastly, never back down on faith for anyone; stand firm and trust the Lord will make good out of every situation. In all things, prioritize Jesus; he will uplift all from the high school hardships and be with them through it all.
