I am often asked the question, “What has impacted you spiritually during your time at Southern Wesleyan University the most?” When I sit and wonder how I will answer, my mind rushes to chapel, to traveling with the University Singers, and to the constant spiritual accountability this campus holds. However, the most incredible spiritual experience I’ve had on this campus has to be during Spiritual Emphasis Week.
I know… coming to a Christian college where chapel is required for students can be intimidating. However, I can truly say it has been one of my favorite things about SWU. Now don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of times that I’d love to skip chapel to finish that assignment or get an extra hour of sleep; but I have seen the hand of God move in chapel, especially during Spiritual Emphasis. It’s something that the student body looks forward to simply because of the mighty power God displays. There’s something special about gathering together during our busy weeks and worshipping the God who made this all possible.
It’s something that the student body looks forward to simply because of the mighty power God displays.
Spiritual Emphasis is a specific week every semester that has extra chapel services. These chapel services feel like a revival for the student body as we catch our breath from the hectic life of classes, extracurriculars, and homework. It is a safe place for students to come and lay down the burdens that the world has been throwing at them. I know for me personally, God always loves to smack me in the face with the truth from the speaker. It seems to me that every Spiritual Emphasis comes at a time when my faith is being tested. Looking at that now, it’s evident that Satan works his hardest right around that time each semester in order to cloud my mind from hearing anything God wants me to hear. However, God has a way of making his message clear and I always leave those chapels feeling understood, rejuvenated, and excited about what SWU’s student body can do.
God has revealed so much about Himself to me through Spiritual Emphasis. When it seems as though I have no one, God proves He is there. When Satan tries to keep me down with shame and guilt from my past, God puts my faults into the light and helps me find healing. When I feel as if I’m not adequate for the calling God has placed on my life, I am reminded I am His child and that He uses even the most broken of people to further His Kingdom. Also, when I’m struggling with terribly difficult decisions, God shows me His truth and helps me find the best path for me.
It has been lessons like these that have made Spiritual Emphasis the most impactful moments during my time here. God moves in such powerful ways that it’s almost hard to comprehend. I would dare to say that Spiritual Emphasis has been some of the best weeks of my life. I always feel completely wrecked after a good chapel service. Especially this past semester, God helped me answer a call to ministry, repair friendships that were broken, and envision a plan for my life after graduation. I’ve seen firsthand that if we’re willing to follow God’s plan and give up our own, life won’t be easy; but it will be so much more worth it.
Those times when you can gather with your best friends and just fall at the feet of God in worship are times that I’ll never forget or take for granted. Trust me, you’ll have many times like that during your journey at SWU. Just be open to them. Be open to God and His plan. Lastly, be ready for what He’s going to do! It’ll blow you away!
*SWU Chapel services are streamed live every Monday and Wednesday at 10am EST on YouTube. Subscribe so you don't miss a service! Watch recorded Spiritual Emphasis Week services here.
