A Prayer for the High School Graduate
By Alicia Searl
Bible Reading:
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” - Matthew 7:24
Listen or Read Below:
Dear Graduate,
Congratulations! You made it to a brand-new chapter in your life, and a very monumental one at that! This is your moment, your time to shine, your new journey awaits, and the world is your canvas. Where will you cast your vision, open your heart, and lay your fingerprints?
Sweet endings always bring in a wave of new beginnings. How exciting! Yet, when the graduation ceremonies come to a close, the parties and celebrations wind down, and you begin prepping for what comes next, you may find that it conjures up many (maybe even new) emotions. When that happens (and I assure you, at some point it will), consider these wise words tucked within the gospel of Matthew.
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” - Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus is teaching His beloved disciples (and us) the crucial importance of our firm foundation, and how our faith equips us to live differently when we listen, obey, and heed God’s instruction. As you step into this new season, lean into that wise instruction, fall back on the teachings of your parents, church mentors, and faithful friends. Embrace the love they offered to help lead and guide you on the course you find yourself on today.
Now it is your turn! You have the opportunity to build your life upon the “Solid Rock,” which gives you a life filled with purpose and passion and holds a plan so much bigger than you can even imagine! But do be aware of the mighty storms that will come your way, as we live in a world that is in constant turmoil, and spiritual battles are real and everywhere (Romans 12:2). Don’t be deceived!
However, the good news is that your firm foundation has been set (Proverbs 22:6), which can (and will) allow you to withstand the enemy's schemes. Just be prepared by putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and surrounding yourself with fellow believers who will come alongside you and help you fight the good fight (Proverbs 27:17). Yes, your friends and social circles matter and will change the trajectory of your life, so choose them wisely!
No matter what comes your way, remember that God is always pursuing you (Zephaniah 3:17). He is always with you (Deuteronomy 31:8). He has a purpose and plan for your future (Jeremiah 29:11). He has created you to do good work for His glory (Ephesians 2:10). He will give you the desires of your heart if you commit your life to Him (Psalm 20:4). And He is so very good, all of the time, wanting nothing but goodness for your life (Romans 8:28).
Lastly, and maybe most importantly, when you do so happen to get lost, fall away from your humble beginnings, or lose sight of your purpose, God always provides a pathway back to Him through His Word, which is covered in His rich love, mercy, and grace. So, whether you find yourself on the highest mountaintop or in the depths of the deepest, darkest valley, God is always waiting, ready to whisper truth to your mind and goodness to your heart.
Get ready! This next chapter will be so good because God is so good and so faithful!
Sincerely,
Your Fellow Brothers and Sisters Cheering You On
Let’s Pray:
Faithful Father, we come before You and offer all our thanks and praise for the high school graduates who have come so far and worked hard to get to this new chapter in their lives. We ask for Your love to shine upon them and Your mighty hand to cover them with peace and protection. We pray for Your wisdom and discernment as they seek direction and that Your path be one where they walk with humility and the full confidence to make detours that lead them directly back to You, O God. We earnestly pray that You bring faithful and trustworthy friends into their lives and a church community to grow and enrich their faith. We ask that you grant them the courage to stand firm in their foundation, remember your precious promises, and come to you in times of plenty and need. Lord, please bless this group of high school seniors about to make their mark on this world by giving them a gentle spirit, an open mind, and a soft heart willing and ready to stand firm in their faith and find hope in Your plan. We ask this in Your Holy name, Jesus, amen.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/nirat
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