The Lord replied, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14 (NIV).
The first two posts in the series discussed gratitude and prayers with preparation. Here goes the third!
Rest.
Counting down….weeks….days…
With a few weeks left to your start of classes in a whole different place than you are used to and a travel date set, rest may not be at the top of your list. So, what does God says about rest?
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10 (NIV).
Rest is a way of entrusting all to God and believing that He will take care of them the best way for you. There is a reason why the Sabbath day was created by God. Sadly, a lot of times we find it hard to accept rest despite all we have seen the Lord do over and over.
When I was preparing to resume grad school, one of the questions I asked a veteran student in the lab that I would be joining was “Hey! what are the study materials I could get to start reading ahead?” Her reply was “For what it’s worth enjoy this period of holiday because studying may be all you will be doing for the next 2 years.” This statement stuck, and now in retrospect, I think that statement was a life saver. Truth is, you may not be studying every single day for the period of your stay as a student, but the reality of constantly being under some deadlines or rules is a big elephant in the room you will continuously deal with.
We just don’t seem to get it. Our bodies are designed to benefit from rest, biologically, spiritually, emotionally, but we keep pushing the boundaries.
What can I do to help? How can I fix this? When can we get going? How do we go about it?
All these questions we actively or passively ask, indirectly holding on to the handful of candies we got in the candy box when the Lord is asking us to just release all and trust him for a portion that is perfect for us–If only we can let go. Few weeks ago in a bible study, a lesson resonated with me and it goes “Refusal to accept help is pride.” God taught me a major lesson earlier this year about the miracles of just stepping down from the front seat and allowing God to take the wheel (I hope to write about that soon as God leads). Oh! What unnecessary burden we give ourselves by striving to fix things.
Now that God is working on us to get the rest we need, and depend on him absolutely. Here are some fun things to consider during the stillness.
1. Memories
Create worthwhile memories with your family and loved ones💖. These will help you through difficult days. You may pack a photo album or save an electronic file if you mind the extra weight. As for me, I made a space for sentimental pieces that are dear to my heart (can’t blame me). Just grab something that can take you back to happy times with your family.
Photo by Raj Rana on Unsplash.
2. Cultural attires.
Pack some nice traditional attire of your culture that you love. This is optional, but I suggest it to people when they ask for tips on what to pack. Wearing your native clothings give a nod to your culture and helps to connect you to your roots. Your new friends will appreciate it and even get to learn more about you through that simple act.
Photo by Shutterbuoy on Unsplash.
3. Food.
Don’t get me started on this😥. This is a crucial matter to international students. There has been days when I get a random message from a friend about their cravings. Some examples are ‘ponmo alata’, ‘efo riro’. As a naija girl, I have had my fair share too, some days I have craved for ‘suya’; the type that is from a ‘mai suya’ specifically in the streets of Abuja. I once was in a plant genetics class and the mention of Lagenaria sp. got my mind wandering to fresh ‘fura de nunu‘ from Northern Nigeria. Please don’t ask me how we got there😅. In a nutshell, pack enough local ingredients to make some of your favorite dishes in case you don’t have access to international markets. A taste of home could provide all the comfort you need in some days. Although, travel restrictions on items to pack are important and should be strictly adhered to per each destination country.
*ponmo alata- peppered cowskin.
*efo riro- a vegetable soup common in South-western Nigeria.
*suya- a type of skewered beef with spices beef jerky reminds me of it.
*mai suya- a language in Hausa to address the person selling suya.
*fura de nunu- a mixture of millet balls and milk.
*Lagenaria- a scientific name for a genus in the squash family.
Photo by Charles Deluvio on Unsplash.
4. Money.
It will be helpful to get some cash with you at least for the first 2-3 months of your arrival. This is an essential tip people overlook. But, it may take some time for you to fully adjust to the system and the new place you are headed.
5. Sleep.
This can’t be over emphasized. Just go to sleep as you wait for your departure date. Excitement may be in the way but just try. Some nights will be long with piles of assignments in the nearest future😪. Don’t say you were not warned haha😉.
The crux of this post is to enjoy the moments and rest in God’s working power! There is only so much we can do as human beings after all.
WHAT OTHER TIPS ARE LEFT OUT THAT COULD HELP?
Special note: Would you give your life to Jesus Christ? He is the way, the truth and the life. If yes, please pray the prayers below:
Lord Jesus, thank you for your death and resurrection for the salvation of my soul. Please forgive all my sins. I choose you today to follow and to obey. May your love and the holy spirit lead and guide my purpose for your glory. Thank you, my Lord and savior. Amen!
Grace and blessings,
Olushola.
