For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10, NIV
As educators, we often feel the weight of our responsibilities: shaping young minds, guiding hearts, and preparing students for a future we cannot fully see. There are days when the challenges seem endless, and it’s easy to question if our efforts truly make a difference. But Ephesians 2:10 reminds us of a beautiful truth: we are not just here by chance, and our work is not just a job. We are God’s workmanship, purposefully crafted and uniquely placed in our classrooms for His mission.
Every act of teaching, every moment of patience, and every encouraging word is part of the “good works” God has prepared for us. He has chosen us specifically to make an impact in the lives of our students. On difficult days, this verse invites us to remember that God is with us, guiding us to do His work with love and grace. He doesn’t expect us to be perfect; He just asks us to be faithful.
Philippians 2:13 further assures us that “it is God who works in us to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Even when we feel we’re not enough, God is at work within us, equipping us with the strength and wisdom to carry out His plans. We are not alone in this journey. God, the ultimate Teacher, is by our side, shaping us just as we shape those around us.
As you step into your classroom today, remember: you are here for a reason. The impact you make, though sometimes unseen, is part of God’s greater plan. Trust that He will provide the courage and resilience you need to make a difference, one student at a time.
Lord, thank You for the gift of teaching and the privilege of shaping young lives. Help me to remember that You have prepared good works for me to do and that my role as an educator is part of Your purpose. Give me strength, patience, and wisdom to serve my students well, especially on difficult days. Remind me that You are working within me, guiding my steps, and filling me with Your love. Let my actions reflect Your heart, so that each student may feel valued, loved, and seen. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Copyright Sarah Tillinghast.
Sarah is a Christian Educators member and a kindergarten teacher from Mid-Missouri.
6 Responses
God’s timing is perfect. I needed THIS today! Thank you for all the encouragement you provide educators.
❤️
Sarah,
Your devotional was extremely encouraging. God is working through us according to His good will and pleasure for the benefit of our students primarily but also for the parents and our co-workers as well.
I retired in 2023 and returned to school yesterday for an hour and I was so blessed by the happy faces of the students that ran up to me to greet me. Although I knew the time was right for me to retire, I was reminded of the affection I have for the kids and their appreciation for my work and the relationship I had with them. In Acts 17 scripture reminds us that God has established the exact time and place where we should live. His purposes designed to be worked out in the lives of our students will be fulfilled by optimistic, encouraging and faith-filled teachers.
I was so encouraged by your words and reminded that our impact is both effective and far-reaching!
Thank you.
Thank you for sharing, Greg! God bless you!
Sarah,
Your devotional was extremely encouraging. God is working through us according to His good will and pleasure for the benefit of our students primarily but also for the parents and our co-workers as well.
I retired in 2023 and returned to school yesterday for an hour and I was so blessed by the happy faces of the students that ran up to me to greet me. Although I knew the time was right for me to retire, I was reminded of the affection I have for the kids and their appreciation for my work and the relationship I had with them. In Acts 17 scripture reminds us that God has established the exact time and place where we should live. His purposes, designed to be worked out in the lives of our students, will be fulfilled by optimistic, encouraging and faith-filled teachers.
I was so encouraged by your words and reminded that our impact is both effective and far-reaching!
Thank you.
Praise God! This motivates me to continue to serve God through the ministry of teaching! God bless us all!
Thank you!