Psalm 84 records the words of a Jewish pilgrim coming to Jerusalem to worship at the temple. His “soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord” which was where the Word of God was taught and the rituals were prepared and fulfilled.

This worshipper had to make the long journey in order to reach the Temple and be near the presence of the living God. This journey required faith and strength just to begin. Refreshing was found in the Valley of Baca where springs of water could be found and pools from the autumn rains could strengthen the travelers to resume their journey. Strength led to more strength as the Lord would provide for them on their way to the Temple.

After having passed the familiar landmarks each worshipper would “appear before God in Zion.” Here they could pray to the Lord, seek his blessing and enjoy his presence. Even if it was for only one day, it was still true that “better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere.”

This journey to the Temple in Jerusalem was always worth the time and effort.

From David Kinnaman's book
"You Lost Me"

Myth 3: College experiences are the key factor that cause people to drop out.

Reality: College certainly plays a role in young Christians' spiritual journeys, but it is not necessarily the 'faith killer' many assume. College experiences, particularly in public universities, can be neutral or even adversarial to faith. However, it is too simplistic to blame college for today's young church dropouts. As evidence, many young Christians dissociate from their church upbringing well before they reach a college environment; in fact, many are emotionally disconnected from church before their 16th birthday.

"The problem arises from the inadequacy of preparing young Christians for life beyond youth group." Kinnaman pointed
to research findings showing that "only a small minority of young Christians has been taught to think about matters of faith, calling, and culture. Fewer than one out of five have any idea how the Bible ought to inform their scholastic and professional interests. And most lack adult mentors or meaningful friendships with older Christians who can guide them through the inevitable questions that arise during the course of their studies. In other words, the university setting does not usually cause the disconnect; it exposes the shallow-faith problem of many young disciples."

(source here)