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NEWBERRY — Getting educated, being close to God and counting one’s blessings were the highlights of Tuesday’s prayer breakfast.

The address was given by Newberry College student and football player Dureal Elmore.

The Abbeville High School graduate told the students gathered at the breakfast at the Newberry College dining hall to take advantage of an education.

“No one can take it away from you,” said Elmore, who scored 49 touchdowns at Abbeville. “Sports will not last forever and all you will have to fall back on is your education.”

He adds an injury can mean the end of a sports career.

“Go to college and get a degree,” said Elmore.

The Newberry College sophomore also told the students to know who is head of their life.

“I get into the word,” said Elmore. “I like the Gospels.”

Elmore told the youth he enjoys the Gospels because they talk about the time Jesus was on earth, his healing and all he did.

“Build a better relationship with God,” he added.

His next point is for the students to count their blessings even the small ones like being able to blink or the hair on their head.

“Some have it far more difficult than you do,” he said. “Thank God for your blessings.”

Elmore added that if a person counts their blessings it helps them to have a more positive attitude.

“Thank God you are able to do small movements,” he said. “It will take you through life.”

Elmore added the Newberry College football team did not finish the season great but a 5-6 season is better than a 1-9 season and is a blessing.

Elmore reminded the students that God can do all things.

“John 3:16 says that God so loved the world that he gave his only son so we can have life; shows how much love God has for us,” said Elmore. “How many of us would give our life for a stranger?”

Newberry YMCA Director Eric Nelson said that John 3:16 is a verse the YMCA lives by and represents what the organization believes.

Nelson added that this week’s pray breakfast series celebrates youth and that the speakers inspire the students.