We lift up this young man before the Lord as he prepares for his first day of college, and we are deeply moved by the weight of anxiety he carries. The transition to college is a significant step, and it is natural to feel overwhelmed, but we know that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7). Let us remind him—and ourselves—that our trust must be placed entirely in the Lord, who holds the future and walks beside us every step of the way.
The Scriptures assure us in Philippians 4:6-7, *"In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus."* This is not just a suggestion but a command—an invitation to release anxiety through prayer and trust in God’s sovereignty. We encourage this young man to cast all his cares upon the Lord, for He cares for him (1 Peter 5:7). Anxiety often stems from a focus on the unknown, but our Heavenly Father knows every detail of his college journey before it even begins. Let him take comfort in Psalm 139:16, which tells us that every day of his life was written in God’s book before one of them came to be.
We also urge him to remember that his identity is not found in his academic performance, social acceptance, or future career, but in Christ alone. Colossians 3:23 reminds us, *"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men."* His purpose in college is not just to gain knowledge but to glorify God in all he does. If he seeks first God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, everything else will be added to him (Matthew 6:33). Let him approach this new chapter with the confidence that comes from knowing he is a child of God, called and equipped for such a time as this.
Now, let us pray together for him:
Heavenly Father, we come before You today with hearts full of gratitude and petition, lifting up this young man as he steps into this new season of his life. Lord, You know the depth of his anxiety, the fears that grip his heart, and the uncertainties that cloud his mind. We ask that You would flood his soul with Your perfect peace—a peace that transcends all understanding. Calm his racing thoughts and replace his fear with an unshakable trust in You.
Father, remind him that You are with him wherever he goes (Joshua 1:9). As he walks onto that campus tomorrow, let him feel Your presence so tangibly that anxiety has no place in his heart. Fill him with joy and confidence, knowing that You have ordained this time for his growth, both academically and spiritually. Surround him with godly friends who will encourage him in his faith and stand by him in times of need. Give him wisdom in his studies, favor with his professors, and discernment in every decision he makes.
Lord, we also pray that You would guard his heart against the distractions and temptations that so often pull young people away from You in college. Strengthen his resolve to walk in purity, to stand firm in his faith, and to be a light in a world that desperately needs Your truth. May he find his satisfaction in You alone, not in the fleeting approval of others or the temporary pleasures of this world.
We declare over him that he is more than a conqueror through Christ who loves him (Romans 8:37). No weapon formed against him—whether fear, doubt, or discouragement—shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Equip him, Lord, to face each day with courage, knowing that You have already gone before him and prepared the way.
Finally, Father, we ask that You would use this season of his life to draw him closer to You. May he seek You daily, grow in his relationship with You, and emerge from this experience with a deeper faith and a clearer understanding of Your purpose for his life. We pray all these things in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
To this young man, we say: You are not alone in this. The God who created the universe is walking with you, and He has a plan for your life that is far greater than anything you could imagine (Jeremiah 29:11). When anxiety rises, speak the truth of God’s Word over yourself. When fear knocks, let faith answer the door. And always remember, you are deeply loved by the King of kings. Step forward in confidence, for the Lord your God is with you!