Inspirational Quotes for Graduation 2009

Graduates of 2009 will need a strong spiritual outlook as they advance into the real world where the job market has become highly competitive. One of the most cherished gifts that I received after graduating was a book of inspirational quotes for graduates called Congrats to the Grad by Zondervan Publishing House. I have decided to share my interpretation of 10 of my favorite graduation quotes in this commentary.

1. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is. (Romans 12:2).

The message in this passage of scripture is that frustration comes when people set personal agendas to try to impress or fit in with other people. True happiness will only come when people pull away from their own ambitions and those of others to discover God's will for them.

2. Now we see but a poor reflection...then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. (I Corinthians 13:12).

In other words, everyone has a purpose. If recent graduates are clueless about their callings in life, it is important for them to be patient, and in time it will be revealed to them.

3. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything in prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts. (Philippians 4:6-7).

Many graduates are anxious when they make the transition from school to the workforce. They become disappointed when things do not work out as planned. Therefore, it is important for graduates to humble themselves, practice patience, and stay in prayer when setting out on their life paths.

4. He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6).

From this verse, graduates see that they have a purpose that is meant to be fulfilled.

5. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation...I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:12-13).

This Bible verse is a statement of faith that will boost the confidence of graduates who are doubtful about their abilities or their place they are in life. It is important for graduates to know that nothing is impossible.

6. The things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. II Corinthians 4:18.

This quote is especially relevant to graduates in that it warns them not to get wrapped up in material things, which can be lost. Instead, graduates should devote there lives to God who is unchanging.

7. Thinking we know it all closes our hearts to what is beautiful and new. -Barbara Johnson

This quote warns graduates to not lean upon their own understanding but instead to listen to the Word of God and trust in Him.

8. Look at every day as a challenge and watch the Lord make the crooked places straight. He knows your need and he'll meet you there. -Luci Swindoll

The main value of this quote is to prepare graduates to meet obstacles on a daily basis. When graduates do their best and trust in God, he will take care of the rest.

9. We should not ignore our dreams. God will sometimes use our dreams to assure us of his promises. - Margaret Fishback Powers

The concept of this quote is to hold on to one's dreams even if they have been deferred.

10. Find out how much God has given you and from it take what you need; the remainder is needed by others. - Saint Augustine

The meaning of this quote is that gifts are not meant to be just for us but to be shared with others.

With assurance, these quotes will put graduates in a spiritual mindset as they discover and fulfill their predestined paths. The inspirational messages in these graduation quotes will also help to replace the confusion and despair that graduates face at times with confidence and faith.

Sources

Branon, J.D., De Haan. D.J., De Haan II, M.R., De Haan, R.W., Egner, D.C., Grounds, V.C., McCasland, D.C., Robinson, H.W., Vander Lugt, H., Yoder, J.E. Our Daily Bread. (1999). Grand Rapids: RBC Ministries.

Congrats to the Grad (1999). Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House.