Today’s Back-to-School devotional is by Trudy Kellum

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NRSV)
Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

Thought for the Day: Last week, a veteran second grade teacher and colleague in the Lee County public school where I work called my classroom to share her distress over some of her recent interactions with the administration of our school.  She happens to be a teacher who both of my own children had for second grade, and who I tremendously admire as being a gold standard, creative, “outside the box” teacher. I was surprised and dismayed to hear this teacher reduced to tears over the way her style of teaching is suddenly being called into question by some parents and the administrators of our school.

All of us, at one time or another in our professional or personal lives, have most likely experienced moments when we begin to doubt and question the unique abilities, talents, and skills, that we feel define us. While I believe in the importance of remaining flexible and open to constructive feedback, I also see how easy it is to fall into the trap of self-doubt and condemnation. I implored my colleague to please not let these recent events discourage her from teaching the way that she knows is her unique and wonderful gift!

I think that all of us can use a reminder now and then to stand firm in our faith – in God, in ourselves, and in one another. When questioning the way that we are viewed by the world, thankfully we have a spiritual lens through which we can view our place in the great scheme of things, as we continue to lovingly navigate the learning curve of life.

Prayer: God our creator and sustainer, thank you for your presence in all aspects of our lives.  Please heighten our awareness of our individual and collective purpose.  When doubt creeps in, may Your love always win.  Amen.