College life can be hard ... you are surrounded with parties, young adults who are living on their own for the first time and taking advantage of "freedom", you're parents aren't around to "encourage" and support what decisions are right/wrong and sometimes you aren't surrounded by strong Christians who can hold you accountable. So, what should one do to stay "Christian" in college?
First, try to join a Bible Study - stay in the Word, fellowship with one another and build relationships with other Christians on campus. Find friends with whom you can hold each other accountable and talk about what you're struggling with. It's vital for us as Christians, to have people like that we can talk to without judgement. Philemon 1:6, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."
Second, avoid temptation. Don't go to the wild parties and assume you "won't act." The more temptation you avoid, the less times you will fall into them. Be smart. Think ahead. Don't give in no matter how much your roomies beg - if you know you may cave in; avoid it. Be sin enough without standing head to head with tempation, so avoid it as much as you can. 1 Corinthians 10:13, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
Third, find some Christian friends. When we are in constant fellowship with other believers, we are less likely to fall into new patterns. We are reminded of how we were raised and how God calls us to act.
Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
Fourth, be a shining light. Don't just talk to fellow believers - make new friends; step out of your comfort zone; be a shining light and tell others about Jesus. Don't leave the impact that Ghandi had of other Christians - "I'd be a Christian had I never met one." Be different - don't follow the world's patterns; follow God's.
Romans 12:2, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Now, as you continue on in your journey of learning to juggle college life, jobs, homework, bills and everything else that falls on your plate - try to take some time to read this book:
Book Link: http://www.amazon.com/How-Stay-Christian-College-Th1nk/dp/1576835103
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