While thinking through what I, as a 23 year old, would say to myself in grade 12 (or high school in general) I flipped through some journals and notes I had written at 16, 17 and 18 years old. Let me first say that high school is no joke. You are on the verge of becoming an adult with freedom in the world’s eyes, yet still figuring out life and all the responsibilities that come with it. There is a lot going on inside of you not only physically as you mature, but emotionally and spiritually. You are learning more about yourself, your passions, what you want in life, who you want in your life and this can cause a lot of tension, confusion and unwanted emotions! Which typically impacts other areas of your life as well, your relationships, your school, your thought life etc. Let me say this as someone who is five years out of the season you are in, it gets better. You are on the brink of something new and God is so excited to take you there. Keep on keeping on girl.
Looking back you will see how God was faithful to you in this season of your life. Enjoy the process and the journey, cause He is not in a rush for you to figure out your life or your emotions. He cares more about your heart and character, than what degree you pursue, what everyone else thinks about you, or what you don't have.
Here are three things I hope encourage you and guide you as you navigate this school year.
Press into Jesus more than you ever have before. Yes, this seems obvious and cliche, but it is the best investment you will ever make. So what could this look like? Deepening your relationship with Jesus could look like writing down your prayers each night. Be honest with Him and tell Him everything on your mind & heart. (Side note, it could be really cool for you to go back in a couple years and see how God was faithful to you through your prayers). You could also establish a good habit of setting aside time in the day to spend with Jesus. Whether that be in the morning, afternoon or evening, set apart 10-20 minutes each day to go through a Bible study, or listen to a worship song and just be quiet in His presence. Listen to podcasts, sermons, attend youth group, serve those around you - do whatever you can to grow in intimacy with Jesus and know His voice more.
Take every moment you can to spend with friends and make memories. Your desire for deeper more meaningful relationships is placed there by God, so keep praying and seeking out those friendships. Even if they don’t come this week, this month or this year, God knows what you need and who you need in your life. He will bring exactly who you need at just the right time, He loves to bless you and surprise you with His goodness. So continue to press into the good friendships you have right now. You never know the seeds you are planting today that will reap harvest in years to come. (I share from experience).
Pursue your interests & passions, even if they change or don’t look like what others are doing. Be curious! Follow those wild goose chases, ask questions and see where they lead you. You never know the opportunities God is walking you into by trusting what He has placed on your heart. If you feel dissatisfied with how things are in the world or in your life, don’t resist those feelings. I have found that in those feelings of discontentment and wrestling that God is drawing things up in me - both good and bad. Let those feelings draw you closer to God. He understands the feelings of wanting to quit, discouragement, and stress probably more than we realize.
God is doing a bigger work in and through your life than you could ever imagine friend. Even if you have written off yourself as someone worth pursuing and believing in, He has never ever stopped believing in you and walking alongside you. He is not done with you. Surrender what you think your life should look like or hope it looks like to Him. Never stop repenting - admitting you are wrong and turning back to His arms of grace. Seek His face, seek to know His voice more than anyone else’s. If there is anything I have experienced in these past five years is that His love grows sweeter and sweeter with time.
So go forth friend, and live in the wild abundance that He has purchased for you with His very life. Advance His Kingdom before your own. I cannot wait to hear the stories of how God shows up and uses you for His glory and the good of others.
Thanks for taking the time to read these words.
They were written with you in mind, but to be honest I’m speaking them right back to my own heart.
If we haven’t met, my name is Daysha! I am probably just like you in many respects. Someone who is trying to figure out life, her dreams, and her passions. Discovering who God called her to be, while cheering others on that same journey. A girl who struggles with insecurities, fears and shame. But who is showing up imperfectly for the glory of God and the good of others.
I love exploring new places, sipping on london fogs and having deep conversations around a fire.
Follow along the journey @daysha.albrecht
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