Graduation marks a transition, a new season of life. Whether you want to encourage them with a note, a letter or another kind of gift, here is a helpful list of Bible verses for graduates that can help.
Graduation marks the culmination of a successful completion of a program study. While many may pursue higher education, for most, graduation is a type of life transition between scholarly pursuits and “real life,” where they must learn to navigate adult roles such as finding work and supporting oneself, living independently. It is normal to have feelings of uncertainty and apprehension about what the future holds, existing alongside the pride of accomplishment, relief and excitement.
A foundation of Bible truth will help the young adult navigate all the changes in his or her life. These are some suggestions of verses or passages that will provide a foundation to the new graduate’s life.
1. Jeremiah 29:11 – A Foundation of Hope
The future can seem overwhelming and confusing. Knowing that God has an over-riding plan can give the graduate peace and security.
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV
As we go along, we’ll introduce less-common Bible verses into the mix, but we’re starting this list with a number of well-known verses, including this next one from Proverbs.
2. Proverbs 3:5-6 – A Foundation of Trust
The burden of big life decisions that loom in from of a graduate can be overwhelming. These are familiar verses, but they remind the graduate of a basic truth.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your path.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV
This trust is important to a generation that often struggles with mental health and stress. That’s why this next verse from Philippians is so good.
3. Philippians 4:6-7 – Rest in God’s Sovereignty
There is a great comfort found in knowing that God has everything under control. Not only that, but God’s sovereignty is what helps us overcome the stress and anxiety that young adults face every day.
“Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV
This verse is also a good encouragement to continually pray, which is an important spiritual discipline.
4. Deuteronomy 31:6 – You’re NOT Alone
Often graduates are leaving the comfort of friends and the security of home as they go “out into the world.” There is comfort provided throughout the Bible that we are never truly alone.
“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV
How comforting to know that God is the “one who goes with you”!
5. Joshua 1:8 – A Foundation of the Word of God
Graduates have spent years with “book-learning” to follow their chosen field. But there is one Book that will provide a foundation for every area of their life.
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Joshua 1:8 NKJV
This verse is followed by the popular and well-known verse about being “strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9), but there is a lot of value in memorizing the Bible, especially as a young adult.
6. 2 Corinthians 10:12 – Avoid Comparison
The temptation, especially for new graduates, is to compare themselves to others and their progress in finding jobs and accomplishing goals. Discouragement can be a very real danger.
“For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”
2 Corinthians 10:12 NKJV
We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:10), so there’s no point in measuring ourselves against others. Our own measure should be whether or not we are following God’s will for our lives.
7. Jeremiah 9:23-24 – Knowing God
The world the graduate will be entering has its own standards for success. This is a reminder that true wisdom and power comes from a relationship with God.
“Thus says the LORD: ‘Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the LORD, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,” says the Lord.”
Jeremiah 9:23-24 NKJV
What do you think? Are there other Bible memory verses for graduates you would add to this list? Leave a comment below.
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