Lord, I Need You: Daily Devotions for the Christian Educator

By Deborah Miller

For Christian educators who desire to hear God's voice specifically addressing their daily work, this daily devotional offers inspiration, challenge, and encouragement to help live out their call from a biblical, God-centered focus. Whether teaching in a private or public school or homeschooling children, a Christian teacher can benefit by a daily orientation to the call of God on his/her life as an educator. Each day's offering inspires, challenges, and encourages teachers to continue in the calling God has placed on their life to educate and facilitate spiritual growth in their own professional and personal life and in the lives of their students. Each month is planned according to the rhythms of a traditional school year: August focuses on preparing for the school year, and September addresses new beginnings and getting to know their students, for example. Each week is themed to have a specific focus that reflects the events of a typical school calendar. Written as God speaking to His children, each day's message begins with focused scriptures for the week, then addresses common challenges in the daily life of a teacher. The format asks educators essential questions at the beginning of each unit, with scriptures aligned to that unit's theme. Each unit offers a collection of short, inspirational devotionals ending with reflection questions designed to reinforce the principles found in God's Word.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 31, 2020
• ISBN: 9781646704644

Deborah Miller

Deborah Miller is 49 years old and lives just outside Glasgow in a place called Cumbernauld. She is married and the mother of two adult children, a boy and a girl. She has studied social sciences and human biology and now devotes her time to writing children’s stories. She has always enjoyed writing as a hobby for her kids and now wants to share her stories with others.

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Introduction

Welcome to a year of using your devotional time to consider your life and call as an educator. Both of us, Deborah and Debbie, have served over three decades either in the classroom directly or in some educational capacity. The life of a teacher, its rhythms and flows, its highs and lows, challenges and blessings, are well known to us. We have lived in your world; the life of a teacher is embedded in our DNA. We recognize because we have lived in your skin how intimately connected teachers are to their work. Into those deep places of a teacher’s heart, mind, and soul, God speaks; deep calls to deep. We have both experienced the Lord gently whispering into our struggles and pains; we have heard His kind but firm admonitions as we chose how to respond in difficult situations; we have received His correction when we have acted in ways that did not reflect the Imago Dei we represented.

In that spirit, we have chosen to write this devotional as God speaking to His beloved children, because we have heard His voice so dearly speak to us, bringing life and light and revelation to us, turning the work of our hands, indeed our lives, into something sacred because He allowed us to do His work with Him, following His leading, walking in His ways, anointed by His Spirit. We hope that reading these devotionals as the voice of the Father speaking to you will bless you. We know teachers will understand that topics and themes can be processed well when done in segments. To that end, we have formatted this devotional for teachers to reflect the world of teachers--each set of devotions is framed as a unit, with essential questions to process at the beginning of the unit, the content of the unit, and then reflection questions at the close of each unit. Our deepest desire is that you would find courage, inspiration, hope, and opportunities to grow as you read and reflect, consider the essential questions, meditate on the words of the devotions, and then think about the reflection questions. Parker Palmer famously said, We teach who we are. We pray that this year of devotionals will find you having been more fully transformed into the precious image of Christ, so that you will be of even greater service in His Kingdom. To God be the glory.

August 1

Unit Theme: A New Year—Making Heart Preparations

Essential Questions

EQ1. What must I do to prepare myself for the school year ahead?

EQ2. How can I lean into the strength of God to walk in peace, hope, and love this year?

EQ3. Where do I see my emotional vulnerabilities, and how can I fortify the emotional walls so that I remain steadfast?

Preparation

1. Write any prayers, questions, or concerns as you respond to the EQs.

2. Read and meditate on the scriptures.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Ps. 139:14)

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Cor. 12:10)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:7)

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. (Ps. 9:10)

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Prov. 37:3–4)

August 2

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well (Ps. 139:14).

My Child,

When I created you in your mother’s womb, I knew the plans I had for you. I put in you a love for children, and I nurtured that throughout your life. As you prepare for this school year, lean in to the vision I have for you, the destiny that is yours as you follow Me.

Just like you prepare for a competition or significant event, you must begin to prepare your heart, soul, mind, and your physical body for the school year ahead. Know that there is a right way to prepare. Choose to be in My Word daily so that I can speak truth, which you will hide in your heart for the exact time you need it.

Talk to Me constantly as you discover what your year may hold, as you look at the calendar and see the big events and projects that will be yours to accomplish.

Begin to exercise trust as you receive your class list and understand the challenges that may be before you. Know that I have placed all of these students under your care this year and will equip you to meet their needs. You are fearfully and wonderfully made for all that lies ahead.

August 3

That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Cor. 12:10).

My Child,

In your weakness, I am made strong. Trust Me. I am all that you need for this year—for each month, for each day, for each hour, for each minute. My strength knows no limits. You see My strength in the power of the wind as the trees bend and sway. You see My strength in the raging seas as the waves sweep over the rocks and pull vegetation into their waters. You see My strength in the heat of the sun as it warms and even burns the earth. You see My strength in the parent who chooses to love the child who is not perfectly formed. You see My strength in the athletes who competes with less than a perfect body.

This year, you will see My strength in you as you allow Me to work through you to accomplish great things. I will bring hearts to myself, restore broken lives, and encourage growth in every life you influence. I will touch each child with My love despite their anxieties and fears. I am eager for you to begin this school year, as My strength will be seen in your weakness.

August 4

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7).

Dear Child,

I choose for you to walk in peace, hope, and love this year. Can you imagine a year where My peace fills every place in your heart? Can you imagine what it would be like to respond with hope to the most hopeless situations in your classroom? Can you imagine a year in which My love rules in every heart throughout the year?

As you lean into My strength, trusting Me to work through your weaknesses, you will find that stress fades away as you focus on the work I am doing through you. Only when you attempt to do your work in your own strength will you become anxious and fatigued.

Meditate on what I say in My Word about My peace, My hope, and My love. If you are able, display those words on your desk, and on the doorposts and walls of your classroom. Plan how you will talk about them to your students and share them with the parents in whatever ways you are allowed. Know that I will do a great work through you this year as I guard your heart and your mind and as you allow Me to bring peace, hope, and love to the children in your classroom.

August 5

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, lord, have never forsaken those who seek you (Ps. 9:10).

Dear Child,

To be a teacher through whom I can work requires that you learn to trust Me with every part of you. I will teach you to give all of yourself to Me. Becoming like Me is a lifelong process; you are gradually being transformed into My image. This transformation takes a lifetime because of the experiences of your journey, the hurts and disappointments you have felt that make you fragile at times. Because I am a loving and patient God, I shape you carefully, molding you with the utmost tenderness. Know that all My children have emotional vulnerabilities, those places that they tend to hide from others.

What I want from you is openness with Me. I have seen every second of your life, from the moment of conception. I know the places where you hurt, where you are vulnerable. Know that I will protect you even in the most difficult of times. As you seek Me, I will facilitate growth in you, which will cause tension. Most likely, that growth will come as you face challenges from parents and students that expose those sensitive places. Know that throughout the year, I will be making you more like Me as you trust Me.

August 6

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart (Prov. 37:3–4).

Dear Child,

Your strength comes from Me. As you trust Me with the year that is before you, I will accomplish My purposes for you and for each child and family in your classroom. On the days that it is hard to walk in love, I will be there to love through you. On the days that you have no hope for the success you so desperately want for each student, know that I am the God of hope and you are to look to Me for the hope you need. When peace is nowhere to be found, and the tension is so overwhelming you know you are drowning, I will be your peace.

This is the year that I have envisioned in My heart from the beginning of time. Keep your eyes on Me and you will remain steadfast. See the peace, hope, and love in My eyes; and know that they will be reflected in your classroom. Stay focused on the truth of My Word, and your heart will be filled with perfect peace. Talk to Me constantly and then listen for My voice. I constantly share My Word and guide My children as they listen, find their delight in Me, and receive the desires of their hearts.

August 7

Reflection

How do I know I am where God wants me today?

How can I be assured of God’s peace and protection?

What assures me that God has a plan and a future for me?

August 8

Unit Theme: Making Mind Preparations

Essential Questions

EQ1. What are the biggest challenges to a healthy thought life?

EQ2. How do I ready myself mentally for the coming school year?

EQ3. Am I prepared to have the mind of Christ when it comes to my colleagues, administration, students, and parents?

Preparation

1. Write any prayers, questions, or concerns as you respond to the EQs.

2. Read and meditate on the scriptures.

Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Pet. 1:13)

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Cor. 10:5)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. (Prov. 3:5)

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. (Col. 3:2)

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (Romans 12:2a)

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Phil. 4:8)

August 9

Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Pet. 1:13).

Child,

It is time to turn your thoughts more intentionally to another school year. I know there may be sorrow and even some anxiety as this season of rest comes to an end. Nevertheless, the ministry calls, and now you must again pick up this mantle, readying yourself for the work ahead. Begin earnestly preparing your mind for what is to come. Organize your thoughts, embrace the discipline of applying mental energy to what lies before you. There is a mind preparation required in order to be fully ready for the tasks ahead. Commit yourself to this work. As you meditate on what is required of you in the next year, let My Holy Spirit speak. I will be your Teacher and Guide, showing you what must be done. Bring to Me your anxious thoughts, and I will give you peace in and through your time of preparation. You have been given the mind of Christ, My Son in whom resides all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. As you focus your thoughts on Me, as you yield your mind to Mine, I will renew and transform you, filling you with anticipation and readiness for what awaits.

August 10

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ (2 Cor. 10:5).

Beloved,

As you look ahead to the demands that await, stir your faith to believe that I can equip you for every task and meet your every need. You will be tempted at times to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, and overworked. Your mind will make comparisons of assignments, look at others’ schedules, and compare students and numbers. Take these thoughts captive. Set your mind on Me. Remember that your battle is never with flesh and blood. When presented with your responsibilities, guard your heart against resentment and anger, especially toward those who are in authority. This battle for your feelings begins in your mind, so guard your thoughts. Pray for all those in authority, then trust that I will move on your behalf. I have called you to be faithful, so choose to accept this year’s assignment with a spirit of grace and humility. Those in leadership roles are not your enemies, so look for the good in others, as you want them to see the good in you. Guard against a complaining and grumbling spirit; these will damage your testimony and reflect poorly on My name. Only trust Me, Child! I am Jehovah Jireh, and I will provide.

August 11

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col. 3:2).

Precious One,

I want to give you a new heart and a new mind as you prepare for another year. I am calling you to see others through a lens of love and grace. I have modeled a spirit of humility for you; now prepare yourself to do likewise with your co-laborers and families. The struggling ones? Have mercy. Lift them up, encourage, and support them. The ones who seem to love the world? Intercede for them. Show them My love relentlessly. The lazy, the proud, the deceived, the ones who work from wrong motives—walk among them as My redeemed! Shine the light of truth and love through every interaction. See them as those whom I have created—precious ones who have stumbled and fallen, trapped by their own flesh and sin. Don’t you know I would gladly leave the ninety-nine to pursue them? So be My hands and feet. Pursue them with your lovingkindness, your gentleness, your example. Imagine each one as a benefactor of salvation, and pray for them to come to know Me. Speak about them and to them only words that build up. As you walk in this manner, I will begin to give you a love and a desire for their good.

August 12

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding (Prov. 3:5).

My Child,

As you are preparing your mind for the year ahead, recognize there are limitations to your understanding: it’s not possible for you to know every potential outcome, every step to take. Only I am omniscient. Trusting Me is essential. As you begin this new year, trust Me with every detail. Trust Me with the number of students in your class. Trust Me with that student, the one who almost drove last year’s teacher out of the classroom. Trust Me with the new teaching partner, the one you don’t really know, who is so different from you. Trust Me with the new teaching assignments, with the subject with which you are not as familiar. Trust Me with the new administration. In all things, you can lean on Me. I am strong. Know that I understand your needs and your wants. Remember that only I, your Creator God, know the beginning from the end. Only I fully know the plans I have for each of My children. As you choose to trust Me, your heart and mind will have peace, and you will find joy as you anticipate the year.

August 13

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2a).

Teacher,

I want to renew your mind toward students. I want to fill you with anticipation for this year, to fill you with vision for this group of learners made in My image. Today, let Me lead you to a place of dreaming and imagining, to give you my thoughts for this year. Write the vision that I will show you—all that I want to do in and through you and in and through your students this year. Train yourself to submit your mind to Me; your thoughts are not My thoughts, but I will give you the ability to imagine beyond what you have known, beyond what you conceive you can do. Am I not God? See your students achieving goals, creating masterpieces, being successful. Imagine them growing, caring, learning, producing, reflecting. Yield your thoughts to Me; let go of thoughts of failure, hopelessness, dead ends, lack, limitations, apathy. Let Me daily renew your mind and give you the faith to hold on to that vision, then walk with Me believing I can do immeasurably more than you could ask or imagine. Do you see how faith is essential to your ability to dream?

August 14

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Phil. 4:8).

My Precious One,

I am calling you to commit yourself afresh to the joy of learning. I have created you with curiosity, a drive to discover, to know, and to think deeply. So you are like Me when you delight in all the riches of knowledge that surround you. Stir up a fresh joy in all that I have made—the sky, the sea, the earth; color, texture, and the marvel of humanity. How intricate and marvelous is everything and everyone I have made! Each day you teach provides an opportunity to welcome your students into this world of wonder. Let the Holy Spirit breathe new life into your lessons. Take a second look! Are you capturing imagination? Do Me the honor of presenting knowledge as beautiful and wonderful. Draw your students into the excitement of being transformed through learning. Allow yourself to be recaptivated by what you teach. I want to expand your mind with fresh insights and inspiration. Spend time meditating and reflecting on the content you deliver. Let My Holy Spirit, the Teacher and Counselor, take you deeper into the intricacies of creation so you can carry a new anointing into the school year.

August 15

Reflection

What are my initial thoughts and feelings about the upcoming year? Why do I think that is so?

How will I prepare my heart and mind to love my students this year? My colleagues? The parents?

Am I excited about the curriculum I will be teaching? Why or why not?

How can I stimulate myself to a new wonder about teaching?

August 16

Unit Theme: Making Hand Preparations

Essential Questions for the Week

EQ1. Am I prepared to commit myself anew to the work of this ministry and calling?

EQ2. Am I willing to humbly examine last year’s units, lessons, handouts, forms, etc., and make the changes necessary to improve them to be fresh and current?

EQ3. Am I ready to give a God-worthy effort to get my classroom ready for the year?

Preparation

1. Write any prayers, questions, or concerns as you respond to the EQs.

2. Read and meditate on the scriptures.

Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor. (Prov. 12:24).

A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied. (Prov. 13:4)

All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. (Prov. 14:23)

Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build. (Ps. 127:1)

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. (Eccles. 9:10)

Whatever you do, work at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. (Col. 3:23; see Col. 3:22–4:1)

Do not say, Why were the old days better than these? For it is not wise to ask such questions. (Eccles. 7:10)

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands. (Ps. 90:17)

Commit your work to the lord, and then your plans will succeed. (Prov. 16:3)

August 17

Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor (Prov. 12:24).

A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied (Prov. 13:4).

Precious One,

I know how much you needed rest and how you have treasured the hours to recreate. Am I not the Lord of the Sabbath? Indeed, I am. I continually call you to rest; I also call you to labor diligently. I need you to turn your heart and hands to a time of preparation. Seek to honor Me as you prepare for another year of fruitful labor. See the tasks before you and don’t shrink back. Yes, there is much to do, and it will take concentration and energy. Don’t be afraid. I want to multiply your efforts so that you feel confident as you begin the school year. Do all that must be done with diligence. This is pleasing to Me and will result in satisfaction and joy as you begin to feel prepared. I desire that you strive for excellence in all things, so bring your work to Me and let us survey it together. Find the balance between accepting mediocrity and relentless perfectionism. Offer to Me your very best, the sacrifice of your time and energy expended to continuously improve. With such faithful service, I am well pleased.

August 18

All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty