A Little God Time for Teachers E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 395

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2016

Beschreibung

Teaching is a work of heart that takes energy and inspiration. Whether your classroom is in a traditional school building or right next to your kitchen, the young people you are equipping are blessed to have you pouring wisdom into their lives. Rest assured that your hard work does not go unnoticed; the effort you put in now will reap a harvest in years to come. Spend a little time with God as you dive into these devotions, and find the strength and encouragement you need to face each teaching challenge that comes your way. With God's help, you can make a positive impact on those in your care. 

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BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

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A LITTLE GOD TIME FOR TEACHERS

© 2016 by BroadStreet Publishing

ISBN 978-1-4245-5281-8 (hard cover)

ISBN 978-1-4245-5282-5 (e-book)

Devotional entries composed by Janelle Anthony Breckell, Diane Dahlen, Claire Flores, Rachel Flores, Deb Perreault, Brenda Scott, Jacquelyn Senske, Christina Sluka, and Carole Smith.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked (nlt) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (niv) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, niv®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “niv” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (ncv) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (nasb) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.Lockman.org. Scripture quotations marked (nrsv) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (esv) are from the esv® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (tlb) are taken from The Living Bible copyright © 1971. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (nkjv) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2014, 2015 by BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved.

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LET’S NOT GET TIRED OF

DOING WHAT IS GOOD.

AT JUST THE RIGHT TIME

WE WILL REAP A HARVEST

OF BLESSING IF WE

DON’T GIVE UP.

GALATIANS 6:9

Contents

Introduction

January

January 1 Running Ahead

January 2 Kingdom Living

January 3 A Deeper Knowledge

January 4 Stay True

January 5 A Loving Gaze

January 6 Clear Vision

January 7 Everyday Gratefulness

January 8 Reflecting his Ways

January 9 Stubbornly Redeemed

January 10 1/64th

January 11 The Best Defense

January 12 Count to Ten

January 13 Island of Tranquility

January 14 Keep it in Check

January 15 Calm in Calamity

January 16 Godly Living is Blessed Living

January 17 Attend to the Needs

January 18 Profitable Obedience

January 19 Ask for Help

January 20 By your Side

January 21 Kaleidoscope

January 22 Discovering Beauty

January 23 It is Worth It

January 24 Honeycomb

January 25 A Lifetime of Influence

January 26 Godly Accolades

January 27 Deal with the Appeal

January 28 A Sound Mind

January 29 Your Strong Tower

January 30 Comfort and Courage

January 31 Economics with Christ

February

February 1 A Yes Response

February 2 Successful Plans

February 3 Reserved

February 4 Equal Opportunity

February 5 Shared Experience

February 6 The Right Armor

February 7 Vacation for the Soul

February 8 Quiet Strength

February 9 A Story to the End

February 10 Patience for All

February 11 Living in the Now

February 12 Accept Help

February 13 A Different Paycheck

February 14 Being his Hands

February 15 Future Rewards

February 16 Sanctified

February 17 Call to Serve

February 18 Step into his Rhythm

February 19 Stories of Hope

February 20 By your Side

February 21 Anchored by Christ

February 22 Facing the Storm Together

February 23 Uproot Resentment

February 24 Unleash your Gifts

February 25 Source of Courage

February 26 Eyes on the Prize

February 27 The Morning Light

February 28 Take that Leap

March

March 1 Freed Through Forgiveness

March 2 Confessions

March 3 The Joy of Giving

March 4 A Gentle Response

March 5 Thankfulness in Everything

March 6 Collective Wisdom

March 7 Encourage Good Habits

March 8 Soul Food

March 9 Humble Hospitality

March 10 An Honest Reputation

March 11 White Lies

March 12 Righteous Respect

March 13 Overflow

March 14 Heroes

March 15 Fulfilled Followers

March 16 Trust the Wait

March 17 Random Acts of Kindness

March 18 Besieged by Kindness

March 19 The best Inspirational Book

March 20 Prepare for Growth

March 21 Credentials

March 22 Supreme Qualities

March 23 Boundless Love

March 24 Steadfast Love

March 25 Learn from the Mentor

March 26 Relax and Breathe!

March 27 Stillness of Heart

March 28 Explore his Promises

March 29 Respect your Superiors

March 30 Corporate Cooperation

March 31 Tongue-Tied

April

April 1 You are Appreciated

April 2 Continual Contact with Jesus

April 3 Safe in Him

April 4 Ultimate Truth

April 5 Comprehend the Truth

April 6 Dig Deep

April 7 Nothing Compares

April 8 Stress-Free

April 9 Appreciating Today

April 10 Lighten the Load

April 11 Little Angels

April 12 Forward-Looking

April 13 Jesus is Coming back for you

April 14 Journey of Truth

April 15 Called to Integrity

April 16 Hidden Places

April 17 Peace Upgrades

April 18 Just Ask!

April 19 Unembellished

April 20 Dirty Feet

April 21 Impartial Decisions

April 22 On Purpose

April 23 Leading the Flock

April 24 The Principal’s Office

April 25 Fully Accepted

April 26 Lead and the Rest Will Follow

April 27 Hopeful Growth

April 28 Blameless

April 29 Crown of Life

April 30 Being Real

May

May 1 Biblical Breakfast

May 2 Molded by Mercy

May 3 Seasons of Trial

May 4 Your Unique Opportunities

May 5 Showered with Grace

May 6 A Better Glory

May 7 Jesus is not Done

May 8 Pray for the Body

May 9 Willing Integrity

May 10 Testimony of Jesus

May 11 Your True Identity

May 12 Faithful Redemption

May 13 Contagious Kindness

May 14 Jesus is Lord

May 15 Expectant Endings

May 16 You are Needed

May 17 Not Just Wishful Thinking

May 18 Before, Now, and Always

May 19 Godly Tasks

May 20 Dreams of your Heart

May 21 Burden of Truth

May 22 Harmonized with Christ

May 23 Stored for You

May 24 The Advantage of Listening

May 25 Experiencing Wisdom

May 26 Collective Honesty

May 27 Rightful Esteem

May 28 A Clean Slate

May 29 Fatherly Acceptance

May 30 Hand it Over

May 31 Walking Beside the Master

June

June 1 Good Reasons

June 2 The True Source

June 3 Highway of Righteousness

June 4 Confident Requests

June 5 Home of the Wise

June 6 Faith Builders

June 7 Sincere Hearts

June 8 Lend your Resources

June 9 A Successful Pursuit

June 10 The Tough Stuff

June 11 Good Behavior

June 12 Pitch and Pray

June 13 Focused Thoughts

June 14 Life in Abundance

June 15 Action and Attitude

June 16 Stages of Life

June 17 The Value of Children

June 18 Moved by Compassion

June 19 You Can do It

June 20 The Command for Courage

June 21 Assured of God’s Presence

June 22 Masterpiece

June 23 Our Deliverer

June 24 A Brighter Location

June 25 Hired by Him

June 26 Walk with Each Other

June 27 Words of Life

June 28 Watered with Wisdom

June 29 Right Around the Corner

June 30 A Unified Family

July

July 1 Stand Together

July 2 Great Work!

July 3 Victory Over Fear

July 4 The Cost of Freedom

July 5 A Good Investment

July 6 No Place for Pride

July 7 Joyful Growth

July 8 Increased Insight

July 9 Monkey See, Monkey Do

July 10 Add to the Ensemble

July 11 Peace Treaty

July 12 When Words Fail

July 13 The Textbook of Life

July 14 Act of Surrender

July 15 Unseen Mysteries

July 16 Savior

July 17 In the Storm

July 18 Words of Light

July 19 God with You

July 20 Uniquely Made

July 21 Teacher or Parent?

July 22 The Worry Train

July 23 Words

July 24 Coffee Break

July 25 Renewal

July 26 The Seventh Day

July 27 Unspeakable

July 28 The Great Mystery

July 29 Gifts for Free

July 30 Uncommon

July 31 Unshakable

August

August 1 Everyday Routine

August 2 Abide in Him

August 3 Contentment

August 4 Lifter of your Head

August 5 At the Cross

August 6 Peace Offering

August 7 Student of the Living God

August 8 A Refuge from the Storm

August 9 Before we Ask

August 10 Teaching Hats

August 11 Faith in Love

August 12 Story Telling

August 13 Let it Go!

August 14 Firm Faith

August 15 Land of Plenty

August 16 Love in Action

August 17 Transformation

August 18 Right Directions

August 19 Cherished Children

August 20 The Cross and Beyond

August 21 Heavenly Expectations

August 22 Uniquely United

August 23 Humble Opinions

August 24 Seasoned Speech

August 25 B Rilliance from Above

August 26 Don’t Sit on It!

August 27 Working Satisfaction

August 28 The Heart of the Matter

August 29 Faith Needs a Voice

August 30 Righteous Riches

August 31 No-Grudge Giving

September

September 1 Guidance

September 2 The Great Architect

September 3 Love Truth

September 4 The Rulebook

September 5 A Safer Path

September 6 Nature’s Voice

September 7 Changed by Kindness

September 8 Wise Enthusiasm

September 9 Counsel of Many

September 10 Modeled Behavior

September 11 Experience Over Knowledge

September 12 Nip it in the Bud

September 13 The Great Race

September 14 Never Stop

September 15 His Work

September 16 Our Oasis

September 17 The Eternal Crown

September 18 His Story

September 19 Fount of Knowledge

September 20 Light up your Face!

September 21 Unto the Lord

September 22 Giving Honor

September 23 Our Present Hope

September 24 Valuable Like no Other

September 25 Hope in God

September 26 Giving in Secret

September 27 A Servant’s Honor

September 28 From God’s Perspective

September 29 Preparing a Place

September 30 Increase Sensitivity

October

October 1 My Sustainer, Protector, and Helper

October 2 Our Guide

October 3 Rich Provision

October 4 Abundant Grace

October 5 Forgiving Like God

October 6 Taste God’s Goodness

October 7 Look at the Heart

October 8 Belonging

October 9 Deal Truthfully

October 10 Quicker in Love

October 11 Taught to Teach

October 12 Source of Joy

October 13 Shared Life

October 14 Faces Uncovered

October 15 Like Little Children

October 16 Learn Faithfully, Teach Wisely

October 17 Feet Secure

October 18 Excellent Work

October 19 Sweet Sleep

October 20 Priority of Love

October 21 Broken Spirit

October 22 Easy Grace

October 23 Gentle Heirs

October 24 Hearts Full of Treasure

October 25 Under Qualified

October 26 Gift of Wisdom

October 27 Patient Teacher

October 28 Evil Practice

October 29 Spiritual DNA

October 30 Bring Calm

October 31 Outdone by Love

November

November 1 Give Hope

November 2 Delight in the Law

November 3 A Teaching Example

November 4 Love Knows What’s Coming

November 5 Benefit of Kindness

November 6 Merciful Kindness

November 7 Love Learning

November 8 Discerning Heart

November 9 Non-Quarrelsome Correction

November 10 God Moments

November 11 The Most Important Thing

November 12 Satisfied Souls

November 13 Teach with your Life

November 14 Receive his Promise

November 15 Joyful Obedience

November 16 A Heart Formed

November 17 The Advocate

November 18 I Will Look Up

November 19 Tested Promises

November 20 Good and Perfect Gifts

November 21 Investing in Others

November 22 Work of the Lord

November 23 Servant to All

November 24 Position of Service

November 25 Commit your Way

November 26 Sun Beyond the Clouds

November 27 Discipline’s Harvest

November 28 Tell the Stories

November 29 Walk in Truth

November 30 Worth a Promise

December

December 1 Wisdom from Above

December 2 Weight of Worry

December 3 Faced with Love

December 4 Healing Through Jesus

December 5 Living Word

December 6 Exercising Self-Control

December 7 Peace Like a River

December 8 Hidden Blessings

December 9 Storytelling

December 10 Foolish Wisdom

December 11 All of You

December 12 Risk

December 13 Hero

December 14 Love Well

December 15 The Call for Help

December 16 Do You Really Need It?

December 17 Clay

December 18 Let God Win

December 19 Cycle

December 20 Chase Wisdom

December 21 The Self Elf

December 22 Christmas Truce

December 23 Stop and Listen

December 24 What he Says

December 25 Carry the Story

December 26 Boxing Day

December 27 Highways

December 28 New Every Morning

December 29 Don’t be Ashamed

December 30 Mind Over Matter

December 31 On the Right Track

INTRODUCTION

Whether your classroom is in a traditional school building or right next to your kitchen, you face your own set of teaching challenges each day. These daily devotions are written specifically with you in mind. Encouraging words, uplifting Scriptures, and personalized prayers will help spur you on as you continue to deposit wisdom in lives of your students.

Rest assured that your hard work does not go unnoticed. The effort you put into equipping these children now will reap a harvest in years to come.

JANUARY

His divine power has granted to

us everything pertaining to life

and godliness, through the true

knowledge of Him who called us by

His own glory and excellence.

2 PETER 1:3 NASB

JANUARY 1

RUNNING AHEAD

Humble yourselves under the mighty power of God,

and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.

1 PETER 5:6 NLT

You have a vision for the future and a goal you want to achieve, but you just aren’t sure how or when. Once a promise is given, and the goal set, you might find yourself getting anxious. When you have set your hope on the goal being instant, the reality that it isn’t hits you hard.

It’s easier to run ahead of God than to wait. We become goal oriented, pushing for the vision no matter what. But God’s timing is perfect. When you do things on God’s timetable, you can step back at the end of it and recognize that he truly did know best. In retrospect, you recognize that all those little setbacks were actually your victories. God perfectly orchestrates his plan. When you humble yourself and trust him to do it, you will be lifted up in a way that is greater than what you first imagined.

Father, help me to trust your plans for my future and to learn your timetable. I don’t want to run ahead of you, I want to be led by you. I want to walk with you because I want to be where you are. Give me the patience and the trust required to live according to your plan.

JANUARY 2

KINGDOM LIVING

He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good,

seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that

God offers.

ROMANS 2:7 NLT

Every day you are given two ways in which to walk. God offers you his way and the world offers another. As we grow in our faith, we become more aware of the contrast between the principles of the kingdom of God and the systems of the world. Scripture says that it is better to give than receive and that we should turn the other cheek when we are wronged. It takes a careful examination of our actions to see if we are allowing these kingdom principles to shape our lives.

The world offers us glory through feeding our pride, and honor in the shallow ringing of man’s applause. Modern societies strive toward immortality through glorifying youth and fixating on leaving a mark on the world. The glory and honor that the world offers, ironically, will be destroyed. God’s Word is the only truth that can promise an eternal reward. Jesus Christ conquered death and promises us that same power as we follow him into eternity. Praise God that his gifts are trustworthy and solid!

Jesus, give me the wisdom to recognize when I am seeking the glory and honor of this world, rather than seeking your kingdom. Thank you that your way is the way of eternal life.

JANUARY 3

A DEEPER KNOWLEDGE

May God give you more and more grace and peace as you

grow in your knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord.

2 PETER 1:2 NLT

The fear of failure is one of life’s biggest struggles. Failure is not a great feeling, and yet most successful people will tell you that failure has been a part of their experience as well. There is something to be said for the knowledge that comes from experience. As your experience of God grows, your understanding of simple concepts like peace and grace will develop into deep truths.

The knowledge of God is not a test that you can fail. Every new thing you learn about Christ will add to your faith. Climb the mountains of life with him, test him at his Word, and find his promises to be true. As you explore the truth, your preconceived notions of peace and grace may challenge you. Treasure this deeper understanding in your heart. He will show you the purest forms of the most wonderful things. Invite God to reveal himself to you daily, and experience the joy of discovering a life of fullness in him.

Jesus, I want to know you in a deeper way. I ask you to reveal something of yourself to me today so I can be encouraged with a fresh understanding of your grace and peace.

JANUARY 4

STAY TRUE

Make every effort to give yourself to God as the kind of

person he will approve. Be a worker who is not ashamed

and who uses the true teaching in the right way.

2 TIMOTHY 2:15 NCV

Teachers, lecturers, and tutors are trained to know the requirements of writing an academic paper. Sources must be cited appropriately and careful attention needs to be taken to avoid plagiarism. This can be a time consuming process, but it is the expected standard of excellence in academia.

We are warned in the Bible that there will be many false teachers in the last days. Treat the Bible and teachings on God’s Word with the same care that you expect from your students’ papers. Look for fake gospels by knowing the true source. Consider what you hear and compare it with the Scriptures. Do those you follow have character qualities that are Christ-like, showing the fruit of the Spirit and living a lifestyle that points you to Christ? We can easily be led astray if we are not familiar with the gospel ourselves. Ask God to give you discernment and insight so that you can stay true to his Word and succeed.

Your Word is true and excellent, Lord. Help me not to be led astray by false teachers but discern the truth and walk in it.

JANUARY 5

A LOVING GAZE

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear,

because fear has to do with punishment. The one who

fears is not made perfect in love.

1 JOHN 4:18 NIV

She could describe exactly what his eyes looked like, where every fleck and freckle rested, and the direction of every crease. Ask her, however, about the barista that served her coffee or the lady who cut her hair, and it would be a gambler’s chance at her ability to get their eye color right. A quick glance is never enough to remember the details. The one she loved was where her gaze lingered. Her time and energy was for those eyes alone.

Jesus is gazing at you with the most complete, overwhelming love in his eyes. We spend a lot of our lives glancing at fear. Our worries and insecurities call out and we look one way and then the other. Quiet your heart today and gaze into the loving eyes of Jesus, recognizing the perfect love he has for you. The fear will subside.

I’ve been so distracted by fears and worries, Jesus. Look me in the eyes and tell me of your love. Let me sing your praises and drink deeply of the love you have for me today.

JANUARY 6

CLEAR VISION

The precepts of the Lord are right,

giving joy to the heart.

The commands of the Lord are radiant,

giving light to the eyes.

PSALM 19:8 NIV

Do you remember reading a book as a child near bedtime, and as dusk set in, your mother called out to turn the light on because you were straining your eyes? Perhaps recently you had to get glasses because the road signs had become fuzzy. Once that light came on or those glasses were perched on your face, there was a moment of relief. Things became clearer.

At times, our spiritual life needs this kind of attention. When life gets out of focus or things get too dim, we need to turn a light on. We need to turn to the Lord to bring things back into alignment again. It isn’t always a major sin issue or crisis that causes our lives to get out of line. Business, monotonous tasks, and minor distractions can all skew our vision little by little. Ask the Lord to search your heart and see if you need an adjustment today.

Lord, I love your Word! Renew in me a spirit of hunger for your Word, and align my life with it. Show me what things need clarity so I can draw closer to you.

JANUARY 7

EVERYDAY GRATEFULNESS

Walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being

built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you

were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

COLOSSIANS 2:7 NASB

When you first came to know Christ, you may have come to him with all sorts of sin issues—the same things that Paul addresses when he writes to the Colossian church—greed, sexual sins, lying, slander, and rage were just a few on his list. Once you began to grow in your relationship with Christ, you began to grow in other areas, and sin is replaced with love, joy, patience, compassion, prayer, and thankfulness. With roots deeply entrenched in Christ, you will begin to see this fruit come to maturity in your life.

A key shift for you may be in the discipline of being thankful. Try to make a habit of writing down something you are thankful for every day: flowers after a long winter, a homemade gift from a student, a close parking space, a nice cup of tea! All of these little blessings will add up to fill your heart with encouragement and gratitude.

Thank you, Jesus, for setting me free from my sin and leading me into a maturity that comes from knowing you. I pray others would see the change in my life that comes from a heart that is overflowing with gratitude for what you have done.

JANUARY 8

REFLECTING HIS WAYS

O God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood,

and I constantly tell others about the wonderful things

you do.

PSALM 71:17 NLT

Little kids find great fascination in clomping around in their parents’ shoes. They imitate what they see around them, from physical appearance to words and actions. This can be unnerving when you realize the impression you can make on the children or students in your life. They may see the good, but they will also witness the mistakes.

With grace, you can actively model faith to the little ones around you. Let them see you pray, study Scripture, and cry out to Jesus. Let them see you worship in dance and praise to God. The changed life that God has given you will shine brighter than the mistakes, because even your mistakes can be used for glory when you demonstrate repentance. Let them see those hidden things so they can reflect Jesus just as you do.

Jesus, thank you for forgiveness! Thank you for the brightness of repentance. I pray those around me will see your power working in my life for your glory.

JANUARY 9

STUBBORNLY REDEEMED

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm.

Let nothing move you.

1 CORINTHIANS 15:58 NIV

No one enjoys teaching a stubborn child. But stubbornness redeemed is commitment. In our lives, we can be like stubborn children, opposing the will of God and demanding our own way. But we can also be redeemed—stubbornly devoted to following God and keeping our eyes from distractions along the way.

In the lives of our students, we may be the last ones standing in defense against the enemy’s plans. We need to be stubborn in prayer, standing firm even when we are last, even when no one notices, even when we can’t see the results. Maybe you feel fatigued and battle weary today, or very alone in your stand. Maybe you are tired of being stubborn and want to be stubbornly redeemed. Pray for refreshment and seek out someone who will stand alongside you. Be encouraged that Jesus is the one who brings strength when you need it most.

Jesus, thank you for standing beside me. Please bring brothers and sisters in Christ alongside me in this battle. Let me be stubbornly redeemed for your cause.

JANUARY 10

1/64TH

“If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will

say to this mountain, ‘move from here to there,’ and

it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.

MATTHEW 17:20 ESV

The height of the tallest mountain in the world is 29,029 feet. Many have seen it, few have scaled it, but everyone knows its name. 1/64th of an inch is the average size of a mustard seed. Which of these things do people write books about, take pictures of, and aspire to go see in their lifetime? But 1/64th of an inch is all you need.

Sometimes we are looking for greatness, for the opportunity to make a big bold move so we appear like we are changing the world. But greatness is not what Jesus needs to make the impossible possible. Jesus requires a mustard seed of faith. Impossible looms all around us. At work you may have a student who has been given this title. Maybe your entire classroom should have the label on the door. Perhaps you are facing a sickness that doesn’t seem to have an end. Whatever your impossible is, find your 1/64th of an inch! What amount of faith can you stir up in your heart? Find it, and watch God move through you to bring that mountain down.

Dear God, help me find that little bit of faith that I need to move toward your awesome plan for my life! Thank you for making all things possible through you.

JANUARY 11

THE BEST DEFENSE

If God is for us, who can be against us?

ROMANS 8:31 ESV

It is a timeless tale of older and younger siblings: at home wars may be waged, but at school they become each other’s greatest defenders. When a child starts school for the first time, they tend to have much more confidence if they know their older sibling will be around.

To accept something means to receive it. God has received you into his family and he is on your side. When the bullies come out, he is behind you 100 percent. We know that the enemy works against us because we stand with God. Whatever comes your way will fall under the shadow of the one who stands behind you. Your enemy will be totally eclipsed. Let God fight your battles and be your defender, and you will have nothing to fear.

Thank you, God, for welcoming me into your family and treating me like one of your own. Help me to walk in confidence, knowing that you are on my side as my defender and strength.

JANUARY 12

COUNT TO TEN

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow

to become angry, because human anger does not produce

the righteousness that God desires.

JAMES 1:19-20 NIV

Anger is like a lion, roaring and thrashing about. It can often come out of nowhere. Think back to a time when you spoke too quickly and damaged or lost a friendship, or perhaps put a project in jeopardy. Anger can eat us up. We breathe more quickly, adrenaline pumps through our veins, our heads pound, and our stomachs hurt. If we allow ourselves to act in anger, we usually end up doing something we regret. Mother’s advice to count to ten before speaking is still good. This is God’s advice to us as well, that we give our emotions time to settle.

Our anger can mask our ability to understand the truth. If we can tame our anger, we will find that we are in a better place to listen to the other side of the story. Taking the time to listen to others makes it easier for us to respectfully answer them. Remember that the Lord is patient with you. Ask him for the grace that you need to stay calm.

Lord God, soften my heart. Give me a spirit of peace and calm. Help me to listen to those around me, to be slow to anger, and to be a peacemaker in my classroom.

JANUARY 13

ISLAND OF TRANQUILITY

Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding,

but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.

PROVERBS 14:29 ESV

No one likes to look foolish, especially in the eyes of the student. We’ve all seen the teacher who blows up, yelling and demanding silence in a noisy classroom. First, the students cower, and then, with heads down, they cover their faces as they giggle and snort. What was meant to be chastisement turns to folly because the instructor lost control. In this chaotic environment, little learning can take place.

A good teacher knows how to hold back anger, take a breath, or whatever it takes to keep irritation from turning to rage. Their classroom is an island of tranquility, a place of encouragement. Ask the Lord to give you wisdom and grace in those times when you begin to feel out of control.

Dear Lord, I want to be a respected teacher. Help me to curb my temper, and not just react to difficult situations that I encounter. Search my heart and show me my failings that I may grow in love.

JANUARY 14

KEEP IT IN CHECK

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

ROMANS 12:21 ESV

When we are frustrated and trying to force conformity in the classroom, we grow angry and sometimes raise our voices. But what do we accomplish? In the short run, we may get the children to obey the rules; but in the long run, after each occurrence, the desire of the students to please and respect the teacher is damaged and reduced. Children can lose their attentiveness, their initiative, and their joy. Even though a loud voice may seem to get the attention of your classroom, it can undermine what you are actually trying to do.

The Bible says to overcome evil with good. When the class is out of control, overcome the negative with positive. Tell a joke or speak very softly. Try something out of the ordinary. Distract the students just for a moment. You will need to rely on your helper, the Holy Spirit, for self-control and grace. Rest assured that ultimately, love wins.

God, help me keep my voice modulated in class. Help me to be slow to anger. I want to seek out ways to overcome frustration and aggravation so give me peace and a sense of calm. Remind me to pray for my students, especially the more difficult ones!

JANUARY 15

CALM IN CALAMITY

“Let not your heart be troubled. You are trusting God,

now trust in me.”

JOHN 14:1 TLB

Everyone has days of apprehension, worry, and fear. There are days that haven’t gone according to plan. The students are restless, the lesson plans have been thrown out the window, or perhaps a colleague has challenged your abilities.

Calm yourself by digging deeply into the promises of God. Trusting him with your questions, problems, and worries will cause restfulness in your soul. Be assured that he wants you to be successful. He desires the best for you and your students.

God, thank you for your love and concern. Help me to trust in you each day. Please banish my worries and anxieties. Give me the assurance that you will provide me with the knowledge and assistance that I need each day to do the job you have given me.

JANUARY 16

GODLY LIVING IS BLESSED LIVING

“Even more blessed are all who hear the Word of God and

put it into practice.”

LUKE 11:28 TLB

Each day our lives are filled with blessings, though we often don’t discern them. Did you notice that cup of robust, aromatic coffee? Did you observe those sweet primroses and daffodils on the drive to work? Your car probably started this morning. There are also those who work behind the scenes to make your classroom the haven it is: the janitor, the hall monitors, or the school secretary. Each one of them has blessed your life at one time or another.

Be encouraged that you are a blessing in the lives of your students! You may be the only friendly face they see all day. While you may or may not be able to quote Scripture, your life is an example of God’s Word and can be a blessing and encouragement to those you serve.

Lord God, please make me a blessing to those around me. Help me to discern their needs and to respond with your wisdom. Make me more aware of the small blessings you put in my life each day.

JANUARY 17

ATTEND TO THE NEEDS

Do not merely look out for your own personal interests,

but also for the interests of others.

PHILIPPIANS 2:4 NASB

Jen was a fifth grade teacher in a small, poor school district just outside Sacramento. Most paydays Jen shopped at thrift stores looking for children’s shoes, jackets, and sweaters. She found the best deals on extra school supplies. When one boy was absent for several days because he didn’t have any shoes to wear to school, she bought him some. The lunches she took to school each day filled a hamper. She’d set up a picnic lunch and share it with her students. “Just taste this,” she’d say. “Do you think it needs more mayonnaise?” Never was a child perceived as needy; Jen made out they were doing her a favor.

Jen was a single mother of two boys. Money was often tight, but she found ways to stretch it out to help her students. This is a powerful example of being Jesus to a world full of needs. Are you able to see the needs of those around you and put your own interests aside for the sake of others?

God, make me generous of heart. Help me learn to share what I have with others. Open my eyes to those around me and make me a blessing to them. Keep me aware of the needs of others and help me to make a difference in their lives.

JANUARY 18

PROFITABLE OBEDIENCE

Commit everything you do to the LORD.

Trust him, and he will help you.

PSALM 37:5 NLT

The disciples were mostly skilled fishermen. In John 21, some of them had fished all night and caught absolutely nothing. They must have been tired, achy, and discouraged. As they began to row their boat toward the shore, they saw Jesus standing on the beach. He asked if they had caught anything for breakfast. Imagine having to tell Jesus that you’d been out all night without any nibbles. Fishing is your vocation! Jesus then tells them to throw their nets over the right side of the boat. It sounds pretty foolish, doesn’t it? But these devoted men did what Jesus asked and immediately their nets were full. Immediately! They trusted what Jesus had instructed them to do.

There will be times when you feel like your teaching has become unproductive and useless. You have stayed up night after night and don’t seem to be getting results. Come back to the shore, where Jesus is standing, and ask for his advice. Can you listen to what Jesus is telling you to do? Trust him; be committed to his Word, and he will help you turn things around.

God, I want to trust you more. I want to be committed to you and your Word. Help me to entrust you with my needs. Let me listen to you as I read your Word.

JANUARY 19

ASK FOR HELP

We can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper;

I will not fear; what can man do to me?”

HEBREWS 13:6 ESV

Discouragement and worry come upon all of us from time to time. It may seem that nothing is going well. One student has defied your authority. Another just can’t seem to understand the concept you’ve been presenting all week. Perhaps a supervisor has questioned one of your decisions. Maybe you are battling an ongoing health problem. What we do in this time of despair is an indicator of our simple faith. We turn to God, calling upon his name and asking for his help.

The Bible tells us that God will help us in our time of need. He delights in sending you help. He will lift your burden of worry and care. He will show you a situation differently or provide you with a way around a problem. Keeping this promise of God in your heart can supply you with confidence to see the day through.

God, sometimes I struggle with discouragement and worry. I need confidence to know that you will help me in all areas of my life. Help me to call upon you for assistance when I am in need. Take away any fears I have and give me joy.

JANUARY 20

BY YOUR SIDE

Even when I walk through the darkest valley,

I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

PSALM 23:4 NLT

Picture walking along a road on a dark night. Eerie, sparkling eyes peek out from the brush on each side of the road. Strange animals growl and the occasional bird shrieks. It’s hard to see more than a few feet ahead. You have every reason to be shivering with fear, hesitantly putting one foot in front of the other. You can palpably feel the terror.

Now think of the same scene. The animals are still there, no moon or stars light the way, but something is very different! You skip and sing happily as you make your way down the road. What is different? You are holding onto your Daddy’s hand, safe in the knowledge that he will protect you. Know that he is close by today and let it be the encouragement you need to move forward.

God, there are times when I lack courage to face what is going on around me. Take the fears from my heart, walk alongside me, and ward off any dangers that come my way. Remind me that you are my protective Father and will keep me from evil. Thank you for loving me.

JANUARY 21

KALEIDOSCOPE

You created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

PSALM 139:13-14 NIV

A woman was given a box full of fabric scraps. It was quite a hodgepodge. There was blue and pink, deep gold and yellow, the softest green, and vibrant red. Some of the material had patterns on it. There were chickens and coffee beans and birds and roses, even butterflies. She set about cutting each piece of cloth. First, she cut some into triangles, then some into squares. Taking up her needle, she began to sew the pieces together. A blue triangle next to a red square. Then a green shape next to an orange one. Little by little, the quilt grew. She stitched the quilt together until a beautiful kaleidoscope of shapes and colors swirled around the covering. She had created a beautiful thing from a mishmash of cast-off scraps.

Your classroom can be like that quilt. Each student is different, their needs and personalities unlike the one sitting next to them. But with care and creativity, you can help them become who they are meant to be.

Lord God, your creativity amazes me. I thank you that you made me unique and special. Give me the eyes of an artist to see the beauty in my students. I want to help them make the most of their potential.

JANUARY 22

DISCOVERING BEAUTY

The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders.

PSALM 65:8 NIV

Have you ever looked at a spider’s web covered with dewdrops? What about the iridescence of a hummingbird wing, a glistening canyon covered in ferns, a breathtaking sunset, or a chubby-faced giggling baby? Our hearts soar overlooking the snowcapped mountains and listening to birdsongs on a summer’s afternoon.

Each day we are presented with the beauty of God’s world. This includes the people he has put under our care. Beauty can be seen in the little girl with a darling lisp as well as the pierced and tattooed teen with purple hair and attitude. It emanates from the students who are eager to learn as well as the problem kids who sit in the back of the class. They are all wonders of God’s creation. Sometimes we need to slow down a bit to look for the beauty and diversity of the world around us. You may be surprised to find it on your daily drive or by listening a little closer to one of your students.

Lord God, help me to see the world around me with new eyes of amazement. I am in awe of your wonders. I want to see and appreciate the miracles you have placed right in front of me.

JANUARY 23

IT IS WORTH IT

Let us not get tired of doing what is right,

for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing.

GALATIANS 6:9 TLB

Teaching is hard work: lesson plans, classroom prep, bulletin boards, field trips, staff meetings, and grading papers. These tasks are quite time consuming and we haven’t even mentioned actual time in the class! Is it worth it? Yes! Sometimes there is an immediate gleam in the eye of a child who understands the new concept you present and sometimes it is not until years later that the kernel of wisdom germinates and blossoms.

It is easy to be discouraged if you see no progress in your classroom. But improvement will come. You have been well trained to do your job. You have many resources to call upon. Ask God for wisdom; go to his Word. A change for the better is right around the corner.

God, sometimes it’s easy to get into a rut. Help me to see the wonders around me and to remember that each day is new. Even if I can’t see progress, you are working each moment toward blessing. Give me the energy to keep up the good work!

JANUARY 24

HONEYCOMB

Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,

sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.

PROVERBS 16:24 NKJV

The writer of Proverbs understood honeycomb as “health to the bones.” Scientists have now discovered eating honeycomb can lower bad cholesterol and raise the good cholesterol in our bloodstreams. The antioxidants found in the comb can protect liver function and even lower insulin levels in the body.

Just like sweet honey, encouraging and supportive words can make anyone soar. Endorphins are released into the brain, self-esteem is raised, and a general feeling of euphoria can be realized. Conversely, sour or angry words can do more than just hurt feelings. Teachers are sometimes called to be cheerleaders. Encouraging your students to learn, to try again, and to push toward a goal is beneficial to their soul.

God, please help me to speak words of encouragement to my students. May I foster a classroom atmosphere of positivity instead of negativity. Give me patience to keep my temper and help me to seek out the good in each of my charges.

JANUARY 25

A LIFETIME OF INFLUENCE

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life,

and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

PSALM 23:6 ESV

How many students does a teacher influence in their lifetime? Elementary teachers will have twenty to thirty boys and girls each year. Middle school and high school teachers will have four or five times as many. At the very least, it could be over twelve hundred students in a forty or forty-five year teaching career. Imagine!

You can make a lasting difference in the lives of so many. You can influence each and every one of these children by what you say and how you conduct yourself. Your example may determine where they spend eternity.

Dear God, help me to be a positive impact on the lives of my students. I want a seed I plant in their lives to grow to fruition. My wish is that all of them would spend eternity in your house. Show me how to guide them on their way.

JANUARY 26

GODLY ACCOLADES

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,

as working for the Lord.

COLOSSIANS 3:23 NIV

Each year there are teachers singled out for distinction. The awards may be for Teacher of the Year, Educators of Distinction, an honor society of some kind, or another medal or decoration. These instructors are highly praised for their teaching techniques, their work among special needs children, or their ability to encourage a higher percentage of students on to college. Maybe they wrote a textbook, suggested a new curriculum, or helped their school secure grant funds for a new project.