Today a new school year begins for many in my area. Some are already back in classes, others start later this week. It is a good time to remember and pray for teachers. They put in long hours and have a tremendous influence on those entrusted to their care. They are often undervalued and underpaid for the important work they do. Many teachers are also followers of Jesus, and even though they teach in public schools, they are sharing His love in their words and actions. Lord, be with, guide and direct teachers.
It is also a good time to pray for students. Some are nervous and anxious about what is happening. Others think school is just for play and mischief rather than those things plus learning and growing in maturity. Many will be bullied. Lord, be with, guide and direct these students.
Parents, you have a tremendous responsibility raising your children. You know doubt feel that burden. And it can be difficult to be firm and provide the discipline needed. You often question and second guess the decisions you make. Know that when you make mistakes, those were also covered by the blood of Jesus. Accept that forgiveness and keep going, resolving to do better in the days ahead. Lord, be with, guide and direct these parents.
The most important thing parents need to teach their children is about the love of God in Christ. That is what makes all the difference in their lives. Tell them what is means to know that Jesus lived a perfect life for you. Share the wonderful news of Him taking our place in punishment so that we would not have to pay for our sin with our lives. Explain that He rose from the dead to give us eternal life as a gift. Model repentance when you do wrong and show them you need God’s forgiveness, too. Teach them to extend forgiveness to others as well.
Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
Sometimes, in spite of our best efforts, children will make some huge mistakes. I have seen how this grieves parents, especially when their children are grown and are paying the price for their wrong behavior. I think this verse above can give us hope. If you model Jesus and His love in your home, your children have seen and heard that message. It is still in there somewhere, even if they are living in conflict with God’s ways. And because that message is still in their hearts, the Holy Spirit is still working through that Word. Don’t neglect to keep praying for that to happen in the lives of those you know and love.
Both parents and teachers are role models. I pray you will be ones worthy of imitation.
Hebrews 13:7 Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
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Cheryl and I will co-host a trip to Greece next year with Donna Snow: Walk in the Footsteps of Paul. The links to the brochure and registration form are below.
https://www.artesianministries.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/10-Day-2023-Greece-Tour-Brochure.pdf
