ANSWERS – 09-01-2022

ANSWERS
September 01, 2022

Prayer: Dear God, Your Word says You are sovereign, there is nothing that happens on earth or in our lives that You do not know about. Thank You, Lord, that You are in control. Thank You that your love gives us freedom. May we know – in our hearts, in our minds, and in our bodies –  that You are true; that You are the way, the truth, and the life. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Scripture: And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, Who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV

“What does the data show? What is your professional goal this semester? How do you engage scholars in your classroom?” Question after question – educators are constantly asked questions, for many of which we do not have answers. Yet, we are expected to have answers –  at least it seems that way. How does a teacher live in the constant future, trying to know the outcome of all the decisions made in the classroom or in preparation?

I struggled with these questions and many more after moving to a new state to teach after a decade of my home state’s public school system. I thought maybe it would be different. The answer was that it was not different. I still had a mountain of questions both asked of me and ones I had myself.

It hasn’t become easier. My questions haven’t lessened. But instead of the difficulties leaving, my endurance is strengthening. My trust is growing. I know how God loves me in the present time more than I ever knew before. Even when it doesn’t make sense, He shows up in my classroom and guides my words. If we plan so intentionally for our students, does our sovereign God not also have thoughtful plans for us?

When I wonder what to do next, I remember that Jesus says He is “the way, the truth and the life.” That is the answer. I remember that Micah tells us to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.” I remember that Ephesians tells us the Holy Spirit will always be with us. I remember that Hebrews states “we can come boldly before the throne.” God’s Word has so many answers. And all we really need is one: He is with us and He will never leave us. That one answer umbrellas my questions. So for now, I wait. He can handle my questions. Whether it’s data, goals, or student engagement, I choose to turn my eyes back to him for all my answers.

Copyright: Shelah Driver.     To connect with the author, email  [email protected]

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