Dear Christian Educators members and friends, 

As this school year winds down, Christian Educators continues to pray for your strength to finish it with power and passion. I personally know how trying the last few months of the school year can be. So again, we share your burdens and bring them to the Lord in prayer.

Last month, I was advising one of our discouraged members who was questioning her future in education. When I asked her why she was feeling this way, her answer was simple, “I no longer feel valued or appreciated.” 

She then went on to explain that a few weeks ago, she had spoken up at a meeting to share her thoughts on a particular issue. But because her thoughts did not line up with the consensus, she was ostracized by the committee. And as a result, she feels that her input is no longer respected by her colleagues. 

After a few more conversations with her and prayer, God placed the words on my heart to strengthen and support her. I suggested praying before each meeting for the Lord to provide her with the words to speak the truth in love. I reminded her of the persecution faced by the disciples and the many times they did not find favor from the world. And, I encouraged her not to allow their reactions to affect her thoughts or emotional well-being. In other words, I encouraged her to stay the course!

This member’s experience is increasingly common in today’s culture. However, Scripture clearly tells us this is not the way we should treat those with whom we disagree. Leviticus 19:15 says, “Do not pervert justice, do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.” 

As Christian Educators, when faced with these types of challenges, we can model the love of Christ for our colleagues and our students by speaking the truth with love and conviction, praying for those who have fallen into the trap of judging others, and loving and supporting others, even if we disagree.

So, as you stay the course for the remainder of this school year, I want to leave this final thought with you: As a Christian, you are one of His! If or when you don’t feel valued or appreciated by others, look to the cross! Jesus gave His life for you! It holds everlasting significance for us!