Tips

Tips In Practice (TIP)

Alongside our tips, Blossoming and Blooming put together tips in practice to share different approaches to practically carrying out the tips.

Getting up and Getting ready

This tip seems quite straightforward but not always easy, especially when it comes to late nights and early mornings. We shared this tip a few weeks ago for the 'studying online' post. Today we are sharing some ways to put it into practice. •Set an alarm or multiple if needed ⏰ •Create a morning playlist 🎵 •Allow natural light into your room e.g. open your curtains 🌅 •Make your bed 🛌 •Get some fresh air e.g. go for a walk or run 🏃♂️ •Have earlier nights 🌙 •Start your day with God e.g. prayer, read your Bible 🙏 This is a few of our examples but there are various methods for getting up and getting ready.

Finding a space

Between lockdown and the snow ☃️, finding a place to study may not be as simple or straightforward as a trip to the library. And that's okay. There are ways of making it work and today we will share some. There's no specific room or environment where you should do your work but as we previously shared 'wherever it is, make sure it works for you' (Five tips for online studying post). This may involve rearranging your room or having different spaces. Whatever it may be, try to make sure that it helps maximise productivity and minimises procrastination. Once you have found a space or spaces, try to keep your work & equipment together and easily accessible. Creating a setup is one way of keeping it all in one place. If this is not possible, your work could be kept in a particular part of your room or placed in a bag 🎒 (this is very useful if you have to set up and set down). Whether you are finding a space in your student accommodation or family home, try to keep the space as clean and clear as possible. Even if you cannot make the space your own, keeping it clear of clutter can help to minimise distractions and aid concentration. We know that studying from home especially during this time may be different or difficult but we pray that you are able to do what you can regardless of the space you are in 🌹

Staying committed

Earlier this week we asked questions relating to the recent announcement. As we are aware that many of you have upcoming assessments and other things you are working towards, we prayerfully put together a tips in practice concerning staying committed. With all the uncertainty that is present, staying committed may seem challenging and in some cases pointless. We shared in the 'Five tips for getting and staying organised' post that being committed and consistent helps to maintain the order established. Our recent blog post 'The Journey Ahead' showed us that despite the unknown elements of the journey Abraham was embarking, he 'by faith' (Hebrews 11:8) made the journey. Something that stands out from this story is not just the fact that Abraham had the faith to trust God but that he was not alone. God was with him and his family every step of the journey. If there are things that require your commitment, we encourage you to go to the Source, receive Support and Structure your time as well as possible. The Source being God will never 'leave nor forsake you' (Deuteronomy 31:6). This promise was given to Israel and Joshua when they felt fear about their next steps. Other recounts of this promise (Genesis 28:15; 1 Chronicles 28:20) reveal that not only will God not leave us but that He cares and His word is always true. Whilst there is uncertainty, know that God is certain. Support can be received through various means. Whether through family, friends, education or other systems, having support in place can help you to get through what you are working on. Structuring your time will help you to be committed to what is required but also have time for other things, such as rest and hobbies. Whilst assessments take time, try to incorporate a routine or schedule that is manageable and flexible. We pray that you are able to stay committed to what is required, despite the circumstances being faced. We pray that God will be your source of strength and that you have the support you need.

Finding rest in God

 In our previous post we asked the question ‘What does rest look like to you?’ and received a response stating that ‘rest looks like abiding in the promises of God’. We recognise that this year in particular has presented many challenges that may make it difficult for you to find rest. With studies, life and lockdown, finding the time to rest may seem like an obstacle or the perfect opportunity to pause. Definitions of rest associate it with sleep and recovering but what does it actually mean to rest in God? Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) reads ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light’. This is just one example of the invitation God has given to us to give him everything including our burdens. God has not only provided but promised forgiveness and everlasting life through Jesus Christ (John 3:16). The Bible highlights more of God’s promises concerning us including: love (1 John 4:9-11), protection (Psalm 27:1), peace (John 16:33), hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). By accepting this invitation, your burdens become lighter because Jesus Christ is there to carry and guide you through. Our prayer for you all this week is that you are able to find rest and recharge as you enter a new week. We also pray that you are able to find rest in God and give him everything, including your studies.