And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28, NLT

As educators, we are often the ones doing the teaching—explaining, guiding, correcting, and encouraging. Yet some of the most meaningful lessons come not from our training, but from the children we serve. Over the holidays, I was reminded of this truth through my youngest granddaughter, Ellie, whose simple responses carried deep spiritual wisdom.

Lesson One: A Broken Cup

During a family meal, Ellie squeezed her Styrofoam cup just hard enough to create a hole in the side. A little water spilled out, but no one scolded her, and she wasn’t upset. Instead, she began turning that damaged cup into something new. What could have been labeled a mistake became an opportunity for creativity. She even took her little creation home and gave it a place of honor.

Watching her, I reflected on how quickly I discard what feels broken in my own life. How often do I miss the possibility that God might be creating something meaningful from what I see as a failure? Scripture reminds us that God is a redeemer. He does not waste what we are tempted to throw away.

Lesson Two: A Chewed Puzzle

The second lesson came from a wooden puzzle—beautiful, challenging, and carefully designed. Midway through, we discovered one piece had been chewed into fragments by the family dog. Ellie’s response was immediate and joyful: “Oh well! That will just make it more challenging!”

Not frustration. Not defeat. Just expectant trust.

Her words lingered with me. How often do our days as educators feel like that chewed puzzle piece—unexpected, broken, and harder than planned? Yet God is still at work. When the puzzle was finished, it was stunning. Even with the broken fragments, it was whole and beautiful.

Christian educators, the work is heavy, but Christ holds all things together (Colossians 1:16–17). He redeems our mistakes, restores what feels broken, and uses every fragment for His purposes.

Lord, help us trust You when things don’t go as planned. Teach us to see possibilities where we see mistakes and hope where we feel discouraged. Thank You for holding all things together—especially us. Use even the broken pieces for Your glory. Amen.

Copyright Dr. Jackie Minor.

Dr. Jackie Minor is the Director of Victorious Educator Ministries and the author of the newly released book: Taking Jesus to School: The Fruit of the Spirit on Display. You can connect with her or learn more at www.victoriouseducator.com.