Dear Christian Educators members and friends,
I hope and pray that this edition will encourage you to allow the Holy Spirit to guide and direct your path as you persevere through the inevitable difficulties of life.
The book of James says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-3, NIV).
This statement by James is not some macho way of saying, “bring it on I can take it.” Instead, James suggests that we can view the trials in our lives as tests of our faith, ultimately leading to our growth and maturity as believers when we allow God to work in our lives.
Recently, I had a conversation with one of our members who was struggling with the decision to continue in her calling as a public school teacher. She wasn’t sure if she could continue working for a public school district that continually added policies in direct contradiction to her beliefs as a Christian. We had a long conversation and at first, I just listened to her and supported her as she shared her concerns. After a while, I was able to give her some guidance based on my experience in these types of situations. I was able to encourage her that even though we are limited in our actions while teaching in a public school, as Christians, we have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. And through the power of the Holy Spirit within us, we can claim victory in every situation in the name of Jesus. As we ended our conversation, I inspired her to believe that God can and will move mountains on our behalf, even when we are mistreated or suppressed.
Maybe some of you are dealing with similar situations. You may wonder if the work you are doing and the challenges you face on a daily basis are producing any fruit. If that is you, I want you to know that you have the power of the Holy Spirit available to you, according to Acts 1:8. And through the power of the Holy Spirit, you can consider the trials you face as pure joy, knowing that through the testing of your faith, God will produce perseverance in you.
Christian Educators understands the concerns you face as a Christian serving in public schools. We want to support you with Godly love and direction. We will continue to pray for you and lift up your concerns.
This member’s story is just another example of how God continues to work through Christian Educators. Through the overflow of prayer and sincere respect for each of our members the Lord is paving new roads of communication, trust, and sincere relationships. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight. Are you placing all your trust in Him? Maybe with the onset of this new year you can pray and spend more time with the Lord to strengthen both your walk and your level of trust.
The beautiful part of this very important word “trust” we have been talking about today is that as a member of CE you are part of a trustworthy organization that has a heart to look out for your best interests. It is exemplified on a daily basis by the fine work at our headquarters, led by our awesome team of Jere, Michael Ann, and Lauren, who understand your concerns and are the initial sounding board in many situations.
In conclusion, please know that in 2023 and beyond we are here for you. As clearly stated in Galatians 6, we bear your burdens. We take them to the throne of the Almighty and corporately pray for your plight and ask for God’s intervention to lead the way! Oh what a beautiful anchor we have in Jesus. May we always place our trust in Him!
I pray that God will continue to guide you and direct your path.
David M. Piccolo
7 Responses
How is it that what I am reading is exactly what I need to hear today? I am seriously thinking of leaving an unhealthy position in a public school. Thank you for these devotions! They mean more to me that you know and point my eyes exactly where they need to be: upward to Christ.
Thank you so much, I needed these specific words of wisdom today!
Thank you for your notes and thoughts. I am new to Christian educators, but I find your articles very encouraging and am thankful to have found this group of believers and professionals in education. Thank you for your time and faithfulness in intercession.
Dear David,
As a Christian Educator, I am asking for prayer for our oldest granddaughter, Elah Grace, as she goes to various colleges to look into possible attendance. The administrators and teachers of most colleges have left their Christian foundation and have followed the new world view. Please join in prayer asking God our Father, the source of all intelligence and Wisdom, to provide a scholarship and acceptance for our granddaughter at a good Christian college which will help guide her into His grace and instruction with the Bible and His Ways as she matures. Thank you Lord for your kind, loving provision, and for those praying for her.
Kindly,
Catherine Dawson
(860)863-1598
cdawson.ps193@gmail.com
Appropriate words for my season. Poignant reminder that my job is worth doing well for Him. Amen.
Thank you for the v encouragement.
Hello.
I cannot tell you how much this article edified me.
I came into teaching as a second career 12 years ago now. The last 5 years has shown to be increasingly challenging to the point that I talk my self into quitting the profession I was called to.
I teach high school, also in a public school. I teach in a school that other teachers or subs do not want to teach in. I feel that my Christian principles are constantly being challenged with all the liberal agendas that I disagree with. I have decided that the day will come where I will not bow down to the Enemy. The day will come were I will have to choose God over my profession.
I have learned to rely on prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit to do my job .
Thank you for your prayers for me and other teachers, we need them everyday as we are faced with a profession that the Enemy has put a stronghold by demonizing students mentally and brain washing teachers and administrators with liberal agendas that undermine students accountability to do what is right.