Your Grades Don’t Define You - God Does!
Today is A-level results day! It can stir up a whirlwind of emotions; for some, it brings excitement, joy, and relief - for others, it may spark anxiety, worry, or disappointment. But wherever you find yourself today, I want to remind you of one simple truth: your grades don’t define you - God does!
I remember the tension of waiting for my own results in August 1999. At that moment, it felt as if my entire future hinged on those grades. Maybe it was the weight of my own expectations, or perhaps the pressure of living up to others' hopes. Society often tells us that our worth is tied to our performance—that success is measured by the grades we achieve, the universities we get into, or the careers we secure. But God sees things differently. In Matthew 6:33, we are reminded: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well”. When we prioritise seeking God, He provides for us in ways far beyond what any exam results can offer.
Whether today is a day of celebration or uncertainty for you, remember that your worth doesn’t come from a grade - or any worldly achievement for that matter! Yes, good grades can open doors to universities and opportunities, but they do not have the final say over your future. Even in the midst of disappointment - when we fall short of our goals - God can use those moments to direct our path and shape us into the people He created us to be. So, continue to do your part—remain determined, work hard, stay passionate, persevere, and build your character—and trust that God will do His part. He is faithful and He will guide you to where you need to be, even if the path looks different from what you had imagined.
You are more than just a set of grades and you are unconditionally loved by Jesus - and He cares far more about who you are becoming than your exam results. Exam results may have a part to play, but ultimately success in life isn’t just about academic achievements; it’s about becoming the person God has called you to be—a person of faith, integrity, and love who is walking in God’s purposes for their life.
Congratulations to those who have achieved the results they hoped for! But if things haven’t gone according to plan, know that this is not the end of the road. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight”. So stay encouraged - and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus!