By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for a godly life… For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge… 2 Peter 1:3-5, NIV
August brings a familiar mix of emotions for educators—anticipation, excitement, and, if we’re honest, a bit of exhaustion. A new school year means new faces, fresh opportunities, and challenges we can’t yet predict. It’s the season of open doors and high hopes.
As educators, we are wired for growth. We expect it. We plan for it. We celebrate it. There is nothing quite like watching a struggling student gain confidence or seeing a difficult situation turn into a breakthrough. Growth is why we do what we do.
But here’s the question worth asking at the start of this year: Are we pursuing that same kind of intentional growth in our walk with Christ?
Peter reminds us that God has already given us everything we need for a godly life. We are not lacking resources. We are not waiting on more strength, wisdom, or ability. Through Christ, it’s already been provided. And yet—there is still a call to action: “make every effort.”
Spiritual growth, like student growth, is not passive. It requires engagement. It requires consistency. It requires a willingness to respond to what has already been given. Peter even lays out the “learning targets” for us: moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, and love. These are not abstract ideals—they are daily practices, formed moment by moment in classrooms, meetings, and interactions no one else sees.
This school year, what if you approached your faith with the same intentionality you bring to your teaching? What if you set a goal—not just for student achievement—but for spiritual maturity?
Maybe it looks like beginning each day in God’s Word before the demands of the classroom begin. Maybe it’s choosing one area—like patience or self-control—and inviting the Holy Spirit to shape it in you. Maybe it’s staying connected to a community that encourages your faith when the year gets heavy. Whatever it is, don’t settle for staying the same.
Because when you grow spiritually, it doesn’t just impact you—it overflows into every student you teach, colleague you support, and moment you steward. This could be your most spiritually fruitful year yet—not because the year will be easy, but because God is faithful to grow what is surrendered to Him.
Lord, thank You for giving me everything I need to live a godly life. As I begin this new school year, help me to pursue spiritual growth with intention and perseverance. Shape my character to reflect You—growing in wisdom, self-control, patience, and love. Let Your Spirit work through me in my classroom and beyond, so that others would see You in all I do. Make this a year of deep growth and lasting impact 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.
