Back to College

     As I sit here typing away, my mind keeps bringing me back to the many essays and papers i've had to write for college in the past.... and now since the spring semester is starting in two weeks, the reality of what is soon to be required of me has come rushing back in a very strong and depressing way.  I think the depression comes from the fact that once a semester starts....for some reason I cannot stop it from having an all consuming effect on my life.  One could argue though that when it comes to college, an all consuming effect is a good thing.  For me, I feel like it takes away from my quiet time with God and it takes away time spent with my friends and family.  Even though during this consumption I am recieving a good education, I believe time spent with my family and my savior Jesus Christ somehow need to become the priority.
     Sometimes during a semester I also tend to doubt my learning abilities.  Thoughts like "there is absolutely no way to pass this" fill my mind and can affect the way that I study.  This is simply my sinful nature causing me to lack faith in God's will.  The thing I tend to forget is that God is in control of my future and that through his loving guidance, he will determine whether I will have academic success or not.
    So for this coming semester, my main goal is going to be to put God first and to trust that no matter how hard or challenging a class may seem, God is in control and his plan is sufficient.
     ”A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)