Wisdom from the Word: 10 Principles for Parents During the College Years

As parents, sending our children to college is a significant milestone filled with joy, pride, and apprehension. It marks a new season of growth and exploration for them. Here are ten biblical tips to guide parents as their child enters college:

1. Trust in God’s Plan: Place your faith in God’s sovereign plan for your child’s life. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trust that God will guide and protect your child on this journey. 
2. Foster Independence in Christ: Encourage your child’s independence in academics, personal decisions, and their relationship with Christ. As they navigate college life, equip them with a strong foundation in faith and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Proverbs 22:6). 
3. Speak Words of Wisdom: In communicating with your child, let your words be filled with grace and wisdom. As Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Offer godly counsel and a listening ear, providing them with biblical insights when needed. 
4. Teach Biblical Financial Stewardship: Instill your child with Biblical principles of financial stewardship. Proverbs 21:20 teaches, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Encourage them to be responsible with finances, understanding that all they have is a gift from God. 
5. Seek God’s Comfort in Times of Homesickness: Acknowledge that homesickness may come, and in those moments, direct your child to seek comfort in God. Share the promise of Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” reminding them that God’s presence is always near. 
6. Prioritize Time with God: Emphasize the importance of prioritizing time with God amidst a busy college schedule. Encourage daily prayer, reading of Scripture, and attending bible studies or church gatherings to nurture their spiritual growth (Psalm 119:105). 
7. Rely on God in Times of Struggle: Remind your child to lean on God in times of struggle or uncertainty. You will struggle too, but it will be okay.  Philippians 4:13 proclaims, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Encourage them to seek God’s wisdom and strength in every situation. 
8. Emphasize Biblical Values: Encourage your child to hold onto biblical values and convictions, even when they face opposing viewpoints. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Stand firm in their faith and values rooted in God’s Word. 
9. Build a Heart of Gratitude: Teach your child to cultivate gratitude for God’s blessings and provisions. In all circumstances, encourage them to thank the Lord, as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 5:18. 
10. Trust God’s Faithfulness: Lastly, remind your child of God’s faithfulness throughout their life and journey. Lamentations 3:22-23 proclaims, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Trust in God’s unwavering love and faithfulness for your child’s future.

In conclusion, lean on the wisdom of biblical principles as your child embarks on their college journey. I pray that as all of us navigate this pivotal time with our children we find peace and joy in God’s plan and steadfast love.

~PW 🌮🛶