Step-by-Step: A Veteran’s New Mission on CampusSample

The Perseverance Step

“ … but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24).

Patience over time may seem more like a hurdle than a “next step.” You feel you have taken steps of patience, but you didn’t expect to still feel lonely. You didn’t expect to feel so misunderstood by your family or peer age group. You expected to feel free. You thought the military-to-civilian transition would be easier—because you are finally doing what you want to “get on with your life.”

However, you miss some aspects of military life and having trusted friends who understand what you’ve been through is one of those aspects. You miss knowing there is someone to trust who “has your back” in tough situations. You were stronger when you had a team or battle buddy.

Don’t give up. Give it more time … and look around. Others feel the same way you do. Other veteran students feel like “foreigners” in the collegiate environment. Others—including your new friends—would appreciate a word of encouragement or time over a cup of coffee. Others who need help with some assignments or with administrative paperwork. It will take perseverance. This is just the beginning of forming a new group of friends.

In many places in Scripture, Jesus calls His followers “friends.” That relationship is precious because it means you can count on Him—not just during this challenging time in your life, but eternally. Jesus said,

“ … I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (John 15:15).

If you are lonely at first, this is a perfect time to take the all-important step to getting to know Jesus as your perfect friend. He will never leave you behind. Then tell your old and new friends about Him!

Question to Ponder: What character qualities of your friends do you also see in Jesus and vice versa?