Back to School?

Who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are ZEALOUS for good works. Titus 2:14 (ESV)

Our summer is fading fast, and school is just around the corner. As I was reading through Titus this morning, I came across this verse about being "zealous for good works". The word zeal means eager desire or enthusiastic diligence. Since going back to school can sometimes be seen as negative (especially to some youth I know), I thought to share with you some faith-based back-to- school tips that will encourage your zeal for the Lord. Even if you're not in school, these same principles can be applied in your work and home. So here you go...

I. Get Enough Sleep.  (Rest in the Lord)

As parents we all know the benefits of getting our children to bed early on a school night. They need that added rest in order to get up early in the morning. A good night's sleep will work wonders on your attitude the next day and it will help your whole disposition. Resting in the Lord will also make you fit and ready for the day. It will recharge you.  

"Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him..."     Psalm 37:7

II. Eat a Healthy Breakfast.  (Have Prayer and Bible Study)

The experts all agree that giving a child breakfast before school helps in knowledge retention, test scores, and overall learning. As Christians we need to get a healthy breakfast of Bible study and prayer. Having some type of personal devotions will fuel you for the day.

My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD;
in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.  Psalm 5:3 KJV

III. Follow The Rules. (Use the Bible as Your Guide)

School couldn't be productive if it weren't for the rules. We can all remember some of the basics. No fighting. No talking during class. No chewing gum. As Christians we have the best rule book of all. It covers all of the basics. We need to use it as a guide on a daily basis. All of those do's and don'ts in God's Word are there to help us live productive lives.

But he said, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God, and keep it."  Luke 11:28 ESV

IV. Develop Good Work and Study Habits.   (Develop Good Bible Study Habits)

Children that develop good study habits are the ones who sail through school without major problems. We as Christians need to develop good study habits when it comes to God's Word. Knowing the Word is what is going to make or break us. We've got to know the Word of God in order to live it.

Study to show thyself approved unto God,a workman that needeth
not to be ashamed,rightly dividing the word of truth.  2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

V. Try Your Best.   (Do Your Best for Christ)

Teaching our children to do their best will bring results and they can be proud of themselves. It's rewarding to do your best. As Christians we need to strive to do our best in whatever we do. After all we are doing it to honor God.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord,
not for human masters  Colossians 3:23 NIV

VI. Get Along With Your Classmates.  (Fellowship With Other Christians)

When children are taught to get along together at school it causes such a good atmosphere for learning. When we as Christians get along with each other and fellowship with one another, it causes more productive lives, which helps further the cause of Christ.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another,
and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us. 1 John 1:7 NIV

VII. Get To Know Your Teacher.  (Know Christ More)

One of the first things a student needs to learn is what is expected of him from his teacher. How does that teacher deal with homework? With classroom policies? With grades? We need to know what Christ expects of us. Getting to know God will help us serve Him better.

May God be glorified in your life and may you have a zeal for the Lord in whatever this school year brings you.

Scripture to Claim:

And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.   1 Chronicles 28:9 KJV