It’s the beginning of a new school year! But going back to school can give rise to fear or anxiety among both parents and students.
Philippians 4:7 says, “Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and petition, let your requests be made to God with thanksgiving.”
Try using the acronym CALM as a simple way to remember strategies that can help when kids (or parents) are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
“C” – Celebrate God. “Be full of joy in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4). When we remember who God is and what he has done, we feel full of joy and celebrate him through worship.
“A” – Ask God for help. “Pray and ask God for everything you need” (Philippians 4:6). We can teach our kids to be quick to pray in every little thing. Prayer helps us turn every fear over to God and let him take our worries from us.
“L” – Look on the bright side. “Always giving thanks” (Philippians 4:6). Paul encourages us to present our requests with thanksgiving. Anxiety and gratitude never share the same heart. Thanking God for the good things in our lives can be a powerful practice in reducing anxiety.
“M” – Meditate on good things. “Think about things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected” (Philippians 4:8). Don’t focus on the negative. Fill your mind with good things. Think about what you are thinking about!
C.A.L.M. And remember, anxiety may knock at the door, but you don’t have to invite it in for dinner.
—Max Lucado © Anxious for Nothing Young Reader’s Edition
We also want teachers to know they are appreciated and supported as they guide and teach our children!
If you are a teacher, this special encouraging prayer is for you. If you know a teacher, please pass it along.
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven” (Matthew 18:1-3).
Father God, you have created so many gifts in this world. Praise your precious name! Daily give me wisdom to know how to love the children in my class, even in the tough moments. Give me patience to deal with unexpected classroom situations. Fill my heart with sweet memories of every child.
Bless each student in my class, especially those from troubled homes. Let them feel my love and attention, and please protect their innocence. Show me how to be their steady, dependable guide.
Thank you for the sweetness and goodness of children. Thank you for calling me to the task of teaching these young ones and for honoring me with this precious responsibility.
In Jesus name, amen.
© from Pocket Prayers for Teachers
