7 Scriptures to Combat Finals Week Stress - University of Valley Forge

7 Scriptures to Combat Finals Week Stress

7 Scriptures to Combat Finals Week Stress

Finals week. I know you want to die, but you will make it through this. More than just the promise of winter break ahead will help you reach the end of this week without having a massive heart attack. Take a moment away from screaming into the nearest pillow, then meet me back here for the peace that comes with God’s word.

1. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24 NIV)
Good grades are important and a worthy motivation for studying, but remember that to everything we do, there is a higher calling behind it. Diligence can be a form of worship, and it’s something God will reward you for – a bigger reward than a good grade. Keeping that in mind as you prepare will encourage you when you start to wonder if it’s worth it.

2. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:3 NIV)
This verse pretty much speaks for itself: hand over your stress, your process, and the test itself to God and you will succeed.

3. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28 NIV)
You’ve made it this far: your calling is real and it is here. Whatever the outcome, this week is a part of a plan that was made for you. Your future does not depend on your grades; it depends on God.

4. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV)
Prayer isn’t going to write your papers for you or give you the right answers, but it will give you the stamina you need. Not only that, but the peace that comes with prayer will activate a stress-barrier around your heart and mind, providing you with the strength and spirit to get your work done.

5. “Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV)
God is there, even in the semi-colon-or-comma confusion. When you’re not feeling very strong or courageous, call on Him and feel his nearness. Your anxiety will melt away if you take the time to make yourself aware of the one who is with you through it all.

6. “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” (Matthew 6:33-34 NIV)
Finals are really important, but even in the middle of dizzying study sessions, if you seek God first, the things you need – time, focus, drive – will follow. Don’t neglect your spiritual life this week. Tomorrow is doing just fine without you worrying about it, and no amount of busyness will change that.

7. “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” (Proverbs 3:24 NIV)
And finally, a blessing of sweet sleep and fearlessness. Don’t lose sleep over these exams. Remember to take care of yourself, and God will take care of the rest.

This week, as the stress builds to the dazzling climax we’ve all been waiting for – or rather dreading – pray these verses and take hold of their promises. It’s just one more week. With the power, love, and peace of God behind you, ahead of you, and everywhere in between, you can make it through and you will succeed!

 

Written by Olivia Gordon