But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Romans 8:25, NIV

For many educators, December can feel like a season of waiting. Waiting for students to understand concepts, programs to go smoothly, grading to be completed, or energy and focus to last until the last bell.

But the real meaning of the Christmas season reminds us that waiting has a purpose. The world waited centuries for the Messiah, and in that waiting, God was preparing hearts, shaping circumstances, and orchestrating His perfect plan. Likewise, in our classrooms and in our own lives, God is at work even when we cannot see the results.

As Christian teachers, we are called to wait with hope, trusting that God’s timing is perfect. Waiting doesn’t mean being passive. It means trusting, praying, and acting faithfully.

In what areas of your classroom or life are you currently waiting for results? How can you trust God’s timing instead of rushing the outcome? What would it look like to model hope-filled patience for your students this season? How might God be shaping your character or the hearts of your students during this time of waiting?

This Christmas, remember: God is faithful, even in the waiting. The hope we place in Him will never disappoint.

Lord, thank You for teaching me to wait with hope. Help me to trust Your timing in my classroom, in my students’ growth, and in my own life. May I remain patient, faithful, and expectant, knowing that You are always at work behind the scenes. Amen.

Copyright Lara Busold.

Lara is a Communications Editor for Christian Educators.