We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. Hebrews 2:1, NIV
“Let’s stay focused.”
“Pay attention, please.”
“Listen up, 2nd graders.”
Seriously, if I had a dime for every time I said this in my classroom, I’d be a billionaire! But it is an important practice for us to teach our students—the Bible tells us to pay attention or be alert 37 times. It can be hard work at times. There are so many distractions in our busy lives. But if we don’t pay attention, we will drift away.
Imagine lying on an inflatable raft in the ocean or a lake during the summer. If we don’t tie our raft to the dock, we will slowly and effortlessly drift away. So, how do we keep our metaphorical rope tied to Jesus?
- Stay connected to other Christians. Is there another Christian in your school? Could you check in with each other every day? You don’t need a lot of time, just enough for a quick prayer together, a verse, or just a sincere “How are you doing?” (Outside of contract hours of course.)
- Feed your soul every day. Spend time alone with your Heavenly Father praying, listening, and reading His Word. Obviously, you’ve found the Christian Educators Daily Devotionals, but do you know about Around the Word in 180 Days? This daily prayer and Bible reading plan can be listened to anytime during your day.
Heavenly Father, You are calling me to be alert and present in my life today. I can only do this when I fix my eyes on You and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. Help me, Father, to stay alert. Keep me from allowing distractions to cause drift from You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Copyright Linda Livingston.
Linda is a member and teaches talented and gifted elementary students in Gilbert, Iowa.