Graduation season ushers in a time of joyful celebration, marked by proud smiles, flowing gowns and the tossing of caps. While it represents the completion of a major milestone, this moment can also feel like standing on the edge of the unknown — looking ahead to a future filled with both exciting opportunities and lingering questions.

But graduation is about more than diplomas and degrees — it’s a reflection of growth, perseverance and the grace that carried us through. Our achievements are not merely personal victories but powerful testimonies of God’s faithfulness. In every step, every struggle and every success, we see God in Graduation — working, shaping and guiding us for what’s ahead.

As you begin to navigate this new and sometimes uncertain season, take time to invite God into your next steps. Ask Him to lead your path, to steady your heart when uncertainty creeps in and to give you courage when new doors begin to open.

In times of transition, when emotions are high, let us lean on Scripture for peace and guidance. God's Word offers the steady hope and direction we need as we face the unknown. Here are some helpful bible verses for graduates:

Seeking Wisdom

• James 1:5 (NLT): “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking." 
• Proverbs 2:6 (NLT): “For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding."
• Psalm 111:10 (ESV): “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever."

Trusting His Plan

• Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do and he will show you which path to take." 
• Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “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."
• Psalm 32:8 (NIV): “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." 

Finding Purpose

• 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV): “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
• Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
• Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Peace and Encouragement

• Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
• Romans 8:28 (ESV): “And we know that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
• Psalm 20:4 (NLT): “May He grant your heart’s desires and make all your plans succeed."

We often worry first about our job, finances and housing during this transition. While these are important concerns, we must not forget to prioritize our spiritual life. Without the Chapel, workshops, spiritual resources and community that were once so readily available on campus, navigating your spiritual formation post-college can become another challenge. We cannot abandon the rhythms we established, as seeking God will help all other concerns fall into place. 

Here are some spiritual practices that may be life-giving as you graduate:

• Prayer of Examen: Continue seeing God in your every day.
• Rest: Allow yourself to take a break from the pressures that school held and delight in your Creator. 
• Community: Discover ways to continue surrounding yourself with good company after moving away from the close-knit community of several young adults on campus.
• Rule of Life: As you step into a new phase of life, take time to update your rule of life. Adjust it to better align with your evolving feelings, schedule, and needs.

Though your spiritual life will likely look different after college, your communion with God can still be nourished and deepened. 

Amid the planning, pressure and transition, let’s not forget: God isn’t just waiting at the finish line — He’s been with us all along. Through every late-night study session, every difficult decision, and every moment of doubt, He was present. God in Graduation means we never walked this road alone — and we won’t walk the next one alone, either.