“I would like to pray about growing up.” 

The topic of plans doesn’t normally come up in the middle of a semester, but it was brought up recently by a preschool student with whom I was working.

The class had sung their daily songs about the weather and the days of the week and now it was time for prayer requests.  They sat on the carpet, waited to be called on, and watched the teacher write their prayer requests on the board.  Most of the students raised their hand, whether they actually had a prayer request or not.

One student, when called upon, paused for a second, and then said, “Umm…I think I would like to pray about growing up.”  My heart melted.  What a precious statement from a-four year old.

I don’t often take time to ask kids about their concerns or prayer requests, but I think I’m going to start.  People often assume that kids have it easy and that because they’re young, they don’t have a care in the world.  Well this four-year-old does.  Everyone worries about the future, even little boys who are hesitant about turning five.

When we start to have concerns about future plans, we usually try to handle things all on our own and make it work our way.  That’s when we get stuck.  God knows everything.  He’s got it all under control.

Jeremiah 29:11 has been used at many a graduation ceremony, but it always assures me of God’s great power and love, even after graduation.  I’m sure you know it by heart, but it goes like this, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”  He’s always thinking about us; there is never a time when God isn’t looking out for us.  We are always on his mind.

As you think about registering for next semester’s classes or graduating in the spring, don’t forget that God is walking with you down whatever path he’s chosen for you.

A verse that I’ve recently come to love is 1 Corinthians 2:9 which reminds us, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”

There’s no need to worry, just pray.

Rachel Mulder, Columnist