Teaching

Influencers:

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

Teachers truly are the original influencers in our lives. They hold the power to shape young minds, instill knowledge, and ignite a passion for learning. While the term "influencer" has taken on a different meaning in today's digital age, the true impact lies with those dedicated educators who devote their time and energy to imparting essential skills and values to their students.

In a world captivated by social media and the pursuit of online fame, it is vital to recognize the influence that teachers have on shaping the future generation. They are the ones who teach us fundamental concepts, such as reading, writing, and mathematics, which form the building blocks of our education. These skills are far more valuable than fleeting likes and comments, these skills equip us with the tools necessary to navigate the real world and unlock our full potential.

Consider this thought: teachers often spend more quality time with our children during the week than we do as parents. Over the course of nine months, they have the potential to yield a greater influence on our children's lives than we do. This realization highlights the significant role that teachers play in their upbringing and development.

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) reminds us of the importance of guiding children on the right path from an early age. While this verse is often associated with parents, it also extends directly to teachers. As students spend a considerable portion of their waking hours under the care and guidance of their teachers, educators become instrumental in shaping their character, values, and future choices.

With this perspective in mind, it is essential to show appreciation and support to teachers. A simple act of kindness, such as leaving a comment or expressing gratitude, can brighten their day and acknowledge the invaluable impact they have on the lives of their students. While they may not be famous in the eyes of the world, teachers are true heroes in their own right, shaping and molding the minds of future generations.

So, let us remember the real influencers, the teachers who dedicate their lives to nurturing young minds, guiding them towards a brighter future. May we honor and recognize their tireless efforts, for they hold the key to unlocking the full potential within each student they encounter.

A Calling to Serve:

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." - 1 Peter 4:10

Each one of us has encountered a teacher that made a profound impact on our lives. Personally for me, it was my 10th grade English teachers. On the first day of class she shared her objective, to shape us into exceptional writers and prepare us for the high school graduation writing test. The fact that I am now writing devotionals can be attributed to the lessons from her class.

Throughout history, individuals have answered the call to serve others in various capacities, and teachers are agents of positive change in society. Inspired by their faith, teachers devote themselves to the development of their students, guiding them toward a brighter future and instilling a sense of purpose grounded in values. The verse from 1 Peter 4:10 encapsulates the essence of this calling, reminding us that each of us possesses unique gifts and talents entrusted to us by God. As faithful stewards of God's grace, teachers are called to utilize these gifts to serve others, especially the young minds placed in their care. Teachers understand that their influence extends far beyond the classroom walls and can have a lasting impact on the lives of their students.

Teachers help cultivate critical thinking, moral reasoning, and instill a sense of social responsibility in their students. By instilling values grounded in religious teachings, such as integrity, kindness, and justice, teachers help shape future generations who can make a difference and contribute to the betterment of society. Furthermore, a calling to serve as a teacher is a continuous journey of personal and professional growth. It requires a commitment to lifelong learning, adjusting to everchanging standards, and adapting teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of students. As we reflect on the vital role of teachers and their calling to serve, let us express gratitude for their dedication, passion, and commitment to shaping the future. May we support and uplift teachers in their noble mission, recognizing their profound influence and the divine purpose they fulfill in the lives of countless students.

Hey Mom/Dad, I mean Ms./Mr. [Insert name here]

Psalms 32:8 (NIV) - I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

When I first started dating my wife, of course back then she was my girlfriend, I would hear her refer to her students as "my kids" or "one of my sweet babies." It was very rare for me to hear her refer to them as students. It caught me by surprise at first because I never thought teachers really thought much about us outside of school. Turns out, the exceptional teachers love students like their own! This means that over the 180 days of the school year, a teacher has established a relationship with your child.

I'm sure that if you ask any teacher, they can tell you about countless times they have been called mom or dad in the classroom by a student. Why? It's a simple Freudian slip, but it truly speaks volumes about how a child views his or her teachers. Children know deep down in their hearts that teachers actually love them. In some cases, that may be the only love that a child is shown.

Teachers care for our children with their loving eye on them throughout the day, while God keeps His loving eye on us all. I pray every day for my wife and son that the Lord’s protection will be on their life. I would encourage you to pray for your children and their teacher and every member of the staff at your child’s school. Pray God's blessings, guidance, and protection over their lives and work.

Compassion and Empathy:

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Religion teaches us the importance of compassion, empathy, and forgiveness. As teachers, embodying these principles has a profound impact on the lives of our students, especially those who may not have positive adult role models outside the classroom. A teacher's influence can extend far beyond academic instruction. For some students, particularly those facing challenging circumstances or lacking positive adult guidance, a teacher may serve as a beacon of hope and a source of stability.

The best teachers listen, validate their students' experiences, and provide guidance and support. In some ways teachers serve as counselors. Through acts of kindness and understanding, teachers instill a sense of worth and belonging within their students, helping them develop self-confidence.

Empathetic teachers foster a culture of acceptance and understanding. They try to see the world through the eyes of their students, recognizing their unique experiences, challenges, and strengths. They also teach their students to do the same. By embracing empathy, teachers create an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and differences are seen as opportunities for learning and growth. Educators have the opportunity to mold not only the minds but also the hearts of students. It is important to recognize that the impact of a great teacher can impact a student's life for years to come. The seeds of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness sown by a teacher may inspire an individual throughout their lifetime.

The Golden Rule:

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 (NIV)

The Golden Rule, "treat others as you want to be treated," has been a phrase used by teachers for generations, even though its origins can be traced back to Matthew 7:12, one of the teachings of Jesus. It encourages us to consider the feelings, needs, and desires of others, mirroring the treatment we desire for ourselves. One remarkable aspect of the Golden Rule is its ability to transcend religious boundaries. While rooted in the teachings of Jesus, it resonates with people of diverse faiths and beliefs. This principle has withstood the test of time. Any teacher, at any school could quote this principle without directly referencing Jesus, scripture, or religion, but still teach a biblical concept.

By modeling the Golden Rule in their interactions with students, teachers demonstrate the significance of treating others with respect, empathy, and fairness. This models the behavior for students to extend the same behavior towards their peers. I believe teachers can effectively use this principle in the classroom and change the hearts of students by showing kindness to their peers. In a world where bullying has become rampant, whether in-person or on social media, the application of the Golden Rule has the potential to transform school environments into a place where students can focus on learning.

Inspiring Lifelong Learning:

"Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them." - Proverbs 4:5

In the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, there are those exceptional teachers who dedicate their own time to a lifelong commitment to learning and inspire their students to do the same. I am thinking about how my wife has committed years to continuous learning by obtaining advanced degrees, and multiple teaching certifications, and these are lessons that she can pass on to her students.

A teacher who embraces the value of continuous learning understands that their journey as an educator is an ongoing process. They eagerly seek out new ideas, methods, and perspectives, staying current with the latest educational research and innovations. They attend training, conferences, and engage in professional development activities to enhance their teaching skills and broaden their knowledge base. However, it is not only their personal growth that these teachers prioritize but also the growth of their students.

Teachers understand that their role extends far beyond the boundaries of textbooks and lesson plans. They are passionate about helping their students develop critical thinking skills, and strive to make students desire a thirst for knowledge that will serve them well throughout their lives. This knowledge and wisdom will carry them through a successful and fulfilling life. God wants all of us to seek knowledge, and not be destroyed by the lack of it.

Do it Right the First Time

"For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes."Proverbs 24:16 (NIV)

"Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding."Proverbs 15:32 (NIV)

Attached to the walls of a school or classroom, you'll often find motivational posters with catchy slogans, designed to inspire and encourage students. My wife has a poster that states, "If you don't have time to do it right, you must have time to do it over." I can’t count how many times I have been on the wrong side of that statement! I wrote a devotional about “Loops” and it speaks directly to that concept of repeating a matter, so I will not elaborate on it here.

Within the classroom, a caring teacher understands the importance of addressing both understanding and effort. When a student lacks understanding, the teacher invests time and effort in guiding them towards comprehension. They patiently explain concepts, provide additional resources, and offer support to ensure the student grasps the subject matter.

Likewise, when a student exhibits a lack of care, a caring teacher recognizes the opportunity for growth. They allow the student to experience the consequences of their actions, understanding that valuable lessons are often learned through accountability. By giving the student the chance to repeat the lesson, the teacher encourages them to take responsibility, make necessary adjustments, and strive for excellence. God offers us the same opportunities to make changes, with the goal of drawing closer to Him. How we use such opportunities define the outcome of our lives.

What's Next:

When I was a kid, one distinct thing I remember about school is that every year my teacher would mention, "next year in ____ grade, you will..." I always wanted to know why we couldn't just focus on the current year. I wish I had known the scriptures a little better back then. I would have responded with something clever like, "take no thought for tomorrow." As a child, I had many thoughts racing through my head, and it took a lot of self-restraint to keep those thoughts to myself. Thankfully, I had enough good sense to let my innermost thoughts remain just that—my innermost thoughts.

Sorry, let me get back on topic. Teachers are not trying to keep us where we are in life; their goal is to propel us forward. We cannot move ahead if we are not stretched to grow. When teachers make statements about what will happen next year, it is to prepare us for the future. The lesson to learn here is how much easier it is to be prepared for the next level rather than trying to catch up to where we need to be.

Just as teachers constantly strive to prepare students for the road ahead, God provides us with scriptures that emphasize the importance of preparation.

One verse that is especially crucial to keep at the forefront of your mind is "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV). The phrase "always be prepared" stands out to me. Everyone, at some point in life, has faced a pop quiz. In life, we must make it our goal to prepare for what lies ahead. How do we prepare? We prepare by studying scriptures, taking notes, and being tested. Sounds a lot like school, right. God instructs us throughout scripture to be ready for the coming return of Jesus, as seen in passages like:

• Matthew 24:44 - So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.
• Matthew 25:13 - "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."
• Luke 12:40 - You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”
• 1 Peter 1:13 - Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.

Conclusion:

I hope that in this devotional, I've offered some insight into the lives of the wonderful educators who serve as our influencers. May all teachers, in any capacity, have God's smile upon their lives and mission to educate our youth. The calling to teach is not one that should be taken lightly due to the impact their careers have in shaping the next generation. I encourage you to take a moment to thank a former teacher or a teacher who has been influential to your child. Below is a prayer of support to speak over the teachers and staff who support our children's growth and education.

Prayer for teachers:

Heavenly Father, thank you for each and every teacher you have put in our path, and the path of our children. I pray your blessing may follow them, protect them, and encourage them each and everyday. I pray that you show us ways to support the teachers in our lives. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen!

^{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.comThe “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™}