As a college professor, I’ve watched countless students walk through my classroom doors, stepping into one of life’s biggest transitions. Let me tell you – that shift from high school to college life is no small feat! Whether you’re moving into the residence halls or commuting from home, you’re entering a whole new world of possibilities (and yes, challenges too).

You know what I see in my classroom every day? Amazing young people trying to balance it all – busy schedules packed with classes, part-time jobs, social media, and attempting to maintain some kind of daily life routine. And for my Christian students, there’s another vital piece to this puzzle: keeping their faith strong when everything around them is changing.

Here’s the truth – your college years can test your faith in ways you might not expect. You’ll face new ideas that challenge your beliefs, temptations that pull at your convictions, and sometimes, it might feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news – you can use this journey to grow stronger in your faith and become a light for others around you.

That’s exactly why I’ve put together this list of the 20 best devotionals for college students. These aren’t just random books – they’re carefully chosen companions for your spiritual journey, designed to help you dig deeper into God’s Word while navigating the unique challenges of college life. Whether you’re a freshman just starting out or a senior preparing for what’s next, these devotionals will help you stay grounded in your faith while thriving in your college experience.

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RECOMMENDED ARTICLE: Stress Management For College Students

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Why College Students Need Devotionals?

Let me share something I’ve noticed in my years of teaching – the transition to college isn’t just about managing classes and homework. It’s about finding your way through an entirely new season of life. As a professor, I see busy college students trying to juggle everything from demanding coursework to newfound independence, and sometimes it can feel like your spiritual growth takes a backseat.

Between rushing to early morning classes, staying up late studying, and trying to maintain some kind of social life, finding time for God can seem impossible. Add in the pressure of social media, where everyone’s life looks picture-perfect, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disconnected from your faith.

Maintaining Spiritual Growth

This is exactly why having a daily devotional becomes such a powerful tool. Think of it as your spiritual anchor in the midst of campus chaos. Setting aside quiet time with God’s Word doesn’t have to mean hours of study – even 15 minutes of focused devotional time can help center your day and remind you of what truly matters.

The best part? These devotionals are written specifically for your age group and college experience. They address real issues you’re facing, from dealing with difficult professors to handling relationships and making major life decisions. It’s like having a spiritual mentor right there in your dorm room, offering practical advice and biblical wisdom for your daily lives.

Finding Guidance and Support

As someone who works with college students every day, I can tell you that the most important thing is feeling supported during this journey. A good devotional provides more than just Bible verses – it offers personal experiences from others who’ve walked this path, helping you navigate everything from tough times to celebrating victories.

Many of my students tell me how their devotional time becomes a lifeline during finals week, relationship struggles, or those moments of doubt that inevitably come. It’s not just about maintaining your faith – it’s about growing stronger in it, developing deeper understanding, and building a foundation that will carry you well beyond your college years.

Best Devotionals For College Students

When it comes to choosing the right devotional for your college experience, it’s important to find one that resonates with your daily life and helps you grow in your faith. As a college professor, I’ve seen which devotionals really connect with students and make a positive impact on their spiritual journey. Here are my top recommendations, starting with those perfect for any college student:

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.

Running Your Race: A Weekly Devotional Journal for First Year College Student’s

If you’re a freshman feeling overwhelmed by your first time away from home, this devotional is your perfect companion. Written specifically for first-year students, it serves as both a guide and journal to help you navigate your initial college transition.

• Helps build a strong foundation for your entire college journey
• Features weekly devotions that align with the typical challenges of freshman year
• Includes journal prompts to help process your experiences
• Focuses on staying faithful and determined during your college transition
• Perfect for establishing a regular devotional time routine

Available on Amazon.

At First Glance: A Devotional for College Students

This semester-long devotional offers daily devotions that speak directly to the college life experience. What makes this devotional special is how it helps you become a light for Christ right where you are – whether in your residence halls or around campus.

• Encourages spiritual growth through relatable scenarios
• Provides a full semester of daily biblical insights
• Includes practical applications for campus life
• Helps you develop as a Christian leader
• Perfect for both new and returning students

Purchase on Amazon here.

RECOMMENDED READING: Thoughts From A Christian Mother

The One Year Alive Devotions for Students

As someone who works with students daily, I particularly recommend this devotional for its real-world applications. It bridges the gap between high school and college experiences, making it perfect for students at any stage of their academic journey.

• Great for maintaining consistent daily reading habits
• Features powerful, true-life illustrations from both high school and college settings
• Offers daily readings that take just minutes but provide deep insight
• Helps combat the distractions of our media-saturated culture
• Includes practical ways to apply biblical principles

Buy on Amazon here.

Jesus Calling for Graduates

When facing the unknown of college life, this devotional provides exactly the kind of encouragement needed. With 150 carefully curated devotions, it’s particularly impactful during times of transition and helps you develop a deeper understanding of God’s presence in your daily lives.

• Makes an ideal gift from parents or mentors
• Features 150 Jesus-centered devotions
• Perfect for both new and graduating students
• Helps build healthy relationships with God during transitions
• Includes encouraging scriptures and personal applications

Available on Amazon, by clicking here.

Fearless Faith: Devotions for College Students

What makes this devotional especially powerful is that it’s written by former college students who understand exactly what you’re experiencing. As a professor, I’ve seen how students connect with this authentic perspective on facing college challenges with faith.

• Includes relatable stories and biblical guidance
• Written by those who’ve recently walked the college path
• Addresses common worries about the future
• Tackles real issues like peer pressure and tough times
• Provides practical advice for maintaining your faith

Purchase on Amazon.

Walking with Jesus on Campus: How to Care for Your Soul during College

This devotional tackles the critical question I often discuss with my students: how do you maintain your faith when faced with challenging ideologies and busy schedules? Chaplain Stephen Kellough explores ten make-or-break issues that every Christian student encounters.

• Includes guidance for dealing with perfectionism
• Addresses crucial topics like doubt and depression
• Discusses sexuality and singleness from a biblical perspective
• Explores the importance of Sabbath rest
• Perfect for developing a stronger spiritual journey

Available for purchase on Amazon.

The Lipstick Gospel Devotional: 90 Days of Saying Yes to a God Who Is Anything But Boring

Through 90 days of scripture, story, and practical steps, this devotional helps you discover that following God doesn’t mean giving up your personality or joy. It’s especially popular among students seeking to maintain their authentic selves while growing in faith.

• Written in an engaging, relatable style
• 90-day format perfect for a college semester
• Helps you trust God’s plan during uncertainty
• Focuses on embracing your God-given identity
• Adds more joy to your everyday life

Purchase on Amazon, here.

The Simple Truth Bible: The Best Minute of Your Day (365 Daily Devotions for Students)

For busy college students trying to balance academics, social life, and faith, this devotional offers quick but meaningful daily encounters with God. Each devotion is designed to fit into even the most hectic schedule while still providing deep spiritual insight.

• Prepares you for life beyond college
• 365 daily devotions that take just minutes
• Perfect for students with limited time commitment
• Helps build authentic friendship with Jesus
• Addresses real-life struggles and challenges

Available on Amazon.

Trusting God Day by Day: 365 Daily Devotions

Joyce Meyer’s practical approach to daily devotions makes this a standout choice for college students. As I tell my students, it’s not about perfect attendance but about building a consistent relationship with God through life’s ups and downs.

• Includes applicable life lessons from God’s Word
• 365 days of practical spiritual guidance
• Focuses on trusting God over circumstances
• Perfect for building daily reading habits
• Addresses real-world challenges

Purchase on Amazon.

New Morning Mercies: A Daily Gospel Devotional

This devotional has become increasingly popular among my students because it offers fresh perspectives on God’s grace every morning. It’s particularly helpful during those tough times when you need daily encouragement.

• Daily reminders of God’s new mercies
• Gospel-centered daily readings
• Perfect for morning quiet time
• Includes suggested passage of scripture
• Helps develop deeper understanding of grace
• Great for those seeking spiritual growth

Purchase on Amazon.

The Bible Recap: A One-Year Guide to Reading and Understanding the Entire Bible

This comprehensive guide is perfect for students wanting to deepen their understanding of God’s Word during their college years. It’s especially valuable for those seeking to build a strong biblical foundation while managing their busy college students schedule.

• Chronological Bible reading plan
• Includes daily summaries and insights
• Perfect for systematic Bible study
• Helps develop biblical understanding
• Great for both new and mature believers
• Provides historical context and modern application

Available on Amazon.

Best Devotionals For Young Women

As a professor, I’ve noticed that young women often face unique challenges during their college experience. These devotionals are specifically designed to address these distinct needs while strengthening your walk with the Holy Spirit.

College: Real & Relatable Devotionals for Every College Girl 

This devotional speaks directly to the heart of what young women face in college. With 42 weekly studies (perfect for the school year), it addresses everything from healthy relationships to finding your place on campus.

• Includes practical advice for common college situations
• Contains 10 topical studies and 42 weekly devotions
• Addresses real issues young ladies face in college
• Perfect for establishing daily devotions routine
• Helps navigate social media pressures

Available on Amazon.

The College Girl’s Survival Guide: 52 Honest, Faith-Filled Answers to Your Biggest Concerns 

What makes this devotional unique is its mentor-like approach, offering guidance from someone who’s spent years helping college women thrive in their faith. It’s like having a big sister walking alongside you through your college years.

• Perfect for navigating difficult times
• 52 faith-filled answers to biggest concerns
• Written by an experienced college mentor
• Addresses shifting family dynamics
• Helps maintain healthy relationships

Available to purchase on Amazon.

Live Fearless

This devotional by Sadie Robertson has become incredibly popular among my students because it tackles the times of struggle that many young women face with authenticity and hope. It’s perfect for those seeking to break free from comparison and anxiety.

• Includes personal stories and biblical truth
• Helps overcome fear and anxiety
• Encourages authentic faith expression
• Focuses on becoming who God created you to be
• Perfect for building fearless faith

Available on Amazon.

5-Minute Devotions for Teen Girls: A Guide to God and Mental Health

In my experience working with students, I’ve seen how crucial it is to address both spiritual and mental health needs. This devotional provides practical ways to care for both your faith and emotional wellbeing during the college transition.

• Quick, 5-minute daily readings
• Addresses mental health from a faith perspective
• Perfect for busy schedule management
• Includes journaling prompts
• Focuses on developing deeper understanding

Available on Amazon.

She Prays: A 31-Day Journey to Confident Conversations with God

This devotional helps young women develop a meaningful prayer life amidst the busyness of college life. It’s especially helpful for those seeking to establish a consistent quiet time with God.

• 31-day prayer journey
• Builds confidence in spiritual conversations
• Perfect for establishing morning routine
• Includes practical advice for prayer life
• Helps develop spiritual growth

Purchase here on Amazon.

Christian Devotions for Young Men

As a college professor, I’ve observed that young men face their own unique set of challenges during their college experience. These devotionals are specifically chosen to address the spiritual needs and practical challenges that young men encounter in their daily lives.

Revealed: Discovering Your True Identity in Christ for Teen Boys and Young Men

This powerful devotional tackles one of the most crucial questions young men face: identity. In a world of conflicting messages, it helps ground your God-given identity in biblical truth rather than academic success, athletic ability, or social status.

• Helps build confidence in faith decisions
• Explores deep questions about identity and purpose
• Perfect for navigating college transitions
• Addresses masculine identity from a biblical perspective
• Includes practical advice for real-life situations

Available on Amazon.

A Young Man After God’s Own Heart: A Teen’s Guide to a Life of Extreme Adventure 

Think of this devotional as a spiritual climbing expedition – it helps you navigate the challenging terrain of college life while pursuing a deeper relationship with God. As someone who mentors young men, I’ve seen how this approach resonates with their desire for purpose and adventure.

• Focuses on building strong faith foundations
• Addresses specific challenges young men face
• Includes guidance for making right choices
• Perfect for establishing spiritual growth
• Helps develop leadership qualities

Available on Amazon.

Stand Strong: 365 Devotions for Men by Men

What makes this devotional particularly effective is its collection of authentic stories from nineteen different men sharing their experiences with God. It provides diverse perspectives on living out faith in daily life.

• Includes practical applications for college life
• Features real stories from multiple contributors
• 365 daily readings for consistent growth
• Addresses various aspects of masculine faith
• Perfect for year-round spiritual development

Purchase on Amazon.

The Dude’s Guide to Manhood: Finding True Manliness in a World of Counterfeits

This final addition speaks directly to young men trying to define authentic manhood in today’s culture. During college years, when students are establishing their adult identity, this devotional provides biblical guidance for developing genuine Christian character.

• Defines biblical manhood in contemporary context
• Addresses modern cultural challenges
• Perfect for developing Christian character
• Includes practical ways to live out faith
• Helps navigate relationships and life decisions

Purchase on Amazon.

Other Ways to Improve your Faith Journey

As a professor who interacts with students daily, I know that devotionals are just one part of maintaining a strong faith during your college years. Let me share some additional ways to keep your spiritual life thriving while managing your busy schedule.

Using Technology for Faith

In our digital age, there are countless ways to incorporate faith into your technology use. Instead of letting social media distract you from your spiritual growth, you can use tech tools to enhance it.

• The YouVersion Bible App offers hundreds of devotional plans specifically for college students
• Bible Gateway provides multiple translations and audio versions perfect for busy college students
• Christian podcasts offer great content for your walks across campus
• Prayer reminder apps help maintain consistent quiet time
• Online Bible study tools make daily reading more accessible
• Christian music streaming can transform your study sessions into worship music time

Connecting with Campus Ministries

One of the most rewarding things I see on campus is students finding their faith community. Getting involved with a Christian student group can be transformative for your college experience.

• Join a small group for weekly Bible study and fellowship
• Participate in campus ministry events and outreach
• Connect with other believers in your residence halls
• Find a local church that offers student organization activities
• Attend Christian conferences and retreats with your peers

Building Healthy Habits for Growth

The key to maintaining strong faith during college isn’t just about church attendance – it’s about creating sustainable spiritual habits that fit your new lifestyle.

• Start your day with brief devotional time
• Form study groups with other Christian students
• Build healthy relationships with close friends who share your values
• Find a mentor through your Christian student group
• Make time for regular prayer and reflection
• Create accountability partnerships with new friends

Remember, your spiritual journey during college doesn’t have to be a solo adventure. These resources and communities are here to support your growth and help you navigate the challenges of college life while strengthening your relationship with God.

Key Takeaways

As both a college professor and someone who cares deeply about students’ spiritual growth, let me share some final thoughts about maintaining your faith during these transformative college years.

Remember:

• Your college experience is a perfect opportunity to deepen your relationship with God
• Your spiritual growth is just as important as your academic success
• There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach to devotional time – find what works for your busy schedule
• Connecting with other believers through Christian student groups can strengthen your faith
• Using a combination of traditional devotionals and modern technology can enhance your daily devotions
• Building healthy relationships with other Christians provides crucial support during tough times

Your Next Steps in Faith

As your professor friend, I want to encourage you to take action in your faith journey. Small steps in the right direction during these college years can make a lasting impact on your spiritual life:

1. Choose one of these devotionals that resonates with your needs and daily life – remember, it’s okay to start small!
2. Download the YouVersion Bible App or another faith-based app to supplement your reading when you’re on the go
3. Find a small group or Christian student group on your campus – it’s a great way to create lasting friendships with like minded people.
4. Share your experiences in the comments below – your story might be exactly what another student needs to hear
5. Join our community by subscribing to our newsletter for more faith-based college advice and resources

I’d love to hear which daily devotionals have made a difference in your spiritual journey. Drop a comment below or share this post with a friend who might need these resources. Remember, we’re all in this together!

(Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The links provided in this post are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.)

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About the Author:

Hi! I’m Chris. I’m a mother, wife, college professor by trade and micro-influencer by hobby. I am a bargain hunter, jack of all trades, and master of chaos.

Thank you for reading my random thoughts on travel, my stories of life as an under appreciated mother of a teenager, and my easy recipes that have won no awards but instead my family’s love and adoration (which is WAY better, right?).