dear Fearful,
God cares deeply about you and He is with you every step of the journey. Rest assured that what matters to you, matters to Him too.
In a city like Singapore where academics are very important, our grades often define who we are in the eyes of others, such that we often lose ourselves in the chase. But remember this: Your worth is far more than your grades.
While I was studying for my A-levels, I was in a similar position as you. I clearly remember studying with a great dread in my heart because I was so afraid to “mess up”. However, a friend who knew the deep fear I had sat me down and laid out the big picture for me. That friend reminded me that God loves me, He is for me and I can trust Him no matter the outcome. Sitting for the A-levels was just a small part in the grand scheme of things and if I chose to surrender to God and simply gave the best that I had, then I needn’t worry.
Are you willing to surrender your results and the outcome of the road ahead to God, knowing that He is a good God who is in control? Do you believe that no matter what the outcome may be, you aren’t any lesser as a person?
Jesus tells His disciples in Luke 12: 22–26 to “not be anxious” because we are of great value to God and our worrying does not do any good. Cast your cares upon God (1 Pet 5:7) and ask Him to give you peace. May the nightmares be gone in Jesus’ name! We encourage you to share these struggles with your close friends and leaders, giving them the room to support you on this journey too.
Practically, learn to manage your stress by meeting up with friends and having fun together, be it through exercising or doing other meaningful activities together. Take your mind off the results and relax. For me, writing helps me process my thoughts and gives me an outlet to release my stress. You could try that too.
Don’t let fear grip your life. Let God grant you the peace and show you His purposes as you surrender to Him.
