5 Truths to Remind our Kids as School Starts

To My Child as You Start School:

Dear son, I know you are excited and nervous as we begin a new adventure- a new school year! All those feelings of uneasiness you’re having is simply you processing how you feel about the unknown. There are a few things I want to remind you – and myself about – as we begin the school year together. You may think I am silly to remind you of these truths, but know that these truths are reminders for me, too.

1. Everyone is created in the image of God. Every boy. Every girl. Classmates who dress like you and those who dress differently from you. Each one is created in the image of God just like you are created in the image of God. The Bible says, “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Gen 1:27). This means that you do not have the right to be unkind, unloving, or rude in your words and actions with your classmates. This applies to your teacher and any parent that walks in the classroom to assist your teacher. God made each person in His likeness, and though we look different with different colors of skin, different styles of clothing, and have different beliefs and backgrounds – each of us is made in God’s image. Therefore, I expect you to treat each person with kindness in love knowing that the God of the universe made them just as He made you.

2. Give your very best. I do not expect you to excel and be perfect in everything, but I do expect you to give your very best. School is so much fun, but it is also meant to challenge and to grow you. New skills take time to learn, so do not expect to master each one the first time you try. Give yourself grace by giving yourself patience and time to learn and to try. Never be afraid to ask questions; that’s part of learning! And my son, giving your best is easiest when there’s no grumbling.

3. You will fail. At some point, at something…you will fail. And it is okay. Your dad and I love you deeply because of who you are and because you are a gift to us from the Lord. We do not measure you by your grades or by your skills. Your performance in school is not a measure of your worth or a measure of our love for you. It is also not a measure of God’s love for you. God’s love is unfailing and perfect. And nothing can separate you from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39). God loves you when you make great grades, and His love is the same when you do not make great grades. God’s love for you does not change because God does not change (James 1:17).

4. You are not alone. Though your dad and I are not in the classroom with you, God is with you. When you feel alone, or scared, or nervous remember that you can talk to God and tell Him how you feel. Then, remind yourself of His promise to never leave you nor forsake you but to be with you (Joshua 1:9). He is right there with you and will not leave you (Psalm 139:7). Remember this truth, too when you are tempted to do something that is not honoring to the Lord. Though you might think you will not be seen, God sees and knows everything.

5. Be grateful. You have a unique opportunity to have an education. There are so many children around the world who do not have the opportunity to go to school. When you experience frustration and might feel like giving up, take time to tell the Lord thank you for the opportunity to go to school, to learn, and to have an education. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

My son, I am excited to see what the new school year holds. I am excited to see how you will grow academically and in your character as a young sir throughout the year. I am also excited to see how you will grow in your relationship with the Lord this year. These simple truths are not just for you, but are for me to remember, too. And my son, always remember, we love you so much! But most importantly: God loves you the most!

Lord, we pray for this new school year for our child. We thank you that he has the opportunity to receive an education. We ask that throughout the year, we would keep our eyes on You. Give us courage and love to truly love others the way that You love. Give us eyes to see and give us love to treat others with kindness, even when it’s hard. We pray that our child will grow not just in academics and new skills, but that he would grow in his relationship with You. We pray that no matter what happens this school year, he will remember and know that Your love is greater than anything else in this life. Thank you for your promise to never leave nor forsake us. And thank You for the calling of being a parent. We love you and surrender this school year and our child to you, In Jesus Name, Amen.

Copyright © 2017 by Mimi Brady No Ordinary Day Planner. All rights reserved.