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Dry Times

Have you ever experienced those moments during your homeschooling year when creativity seems to have shriveled? You know your lessons, but the inspiration on how to make them fun has dried up. Your children have already done the suggested activities in your teacher's manuals, and they need something new. You try to think of what to do, but the ideas are just not there.

The only way to find that creativity again is to go the "Creator." Jesus has the market on creative genius! "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him." Colossians 1:16

The Holy Spirit can also help you tap into the "juices" that will make your homeschooling day exciting again — divine inspiration that is custom-made for your children and you. "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things." John 14:26a

Lord, thank You for being such a loving, creative God. I humbly come to You today and ask for Your help with homeschooling. Show me what to do and how to teach, so my children will learn what they need to know. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Homeschool Tattletales

"Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins" Proverbs 10:12

My son could hardly wait to talk to me one day during our school time. I could tell he had something important to say and was anxiously waiting to share the news. As soon as the words came out of his mouth, I knew where the conversation was headed. Midway through his first sentence, I interrupted, and a surprised look crossed his face. I asked, "Are you telling on your sister for a particular reason? No one likes a tattletale."

Homeschool children are no different from other children about wanting to "spill the beans" about someone else. By nature, they have a strong sense of right and wrong but often misuse this sense by tattling to make their siblings look bad. Parents must teach their children to confess their own sins as easily and learn to help others in their mistakes instead of condemning them. "And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8

Romans 13:10 says, "Love worketh no ill to his neighbour." Do you find keeping a "juicy" piece of news to yourself difficult? Do you think your responsibility is to expose the failings of others in order to make things better for yourself? Here are two questions you can ask yourself to gauge your actions to see if you are telling or tattling: Do I need to share this information to keep someone from being hurt physically? Am I sharing this news to get someone into trouble or out of trouble?

Remember, love covers a multitude of sins. Ask God for wisdom to know how to help a brother rather than condemn him.

Father, show me how to be full of grace today toward someone who has made a mistake. Convict me of any self-righteousness and use me to lead this person back to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Lord, thank You for being such a loving, creative God. I humbly come to You today and ask for Your help with homeschooling. Show me what to do and how to teach, so my children will learn what they need to know. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Playing Hookie

Does staying under the warm sheets sound appealing to you this morning? Would you like to sleep in and then take the day off to get caught up with all the housework? After all, chores would get done a lot faster with four pairs of little hands to help.

1 Corinthians 15:58 says, "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." As a homeschool mom, some days you just don't feel like having school. Being super mom lost its novelty a long time ago, and you would just like to have your house be cleaned, organized, and feel like a "home" again instead of a cluttered schoolroom.

God calls us to obedience in all areas of our life, including homeschooling. As much as you want to check homeschooling off your list today, don't. Your children's future depends on your daily discipline of placing homeschooling as a priority. Dirt and clutter will always return, but not the opportunities to teach your children. God is waiting for you to get up and get going. Be steadfast and throw those covers off. "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." Colossians 3:23

Lord, forgive me for not staying focused on what I should do today. Strengthen me to resist Satan's temptation of doing other tasks before our homeschooling. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Shortcuts

"Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." Ephesians 4:13

Life is full of shortcuts. High-priced technology has changed the way we live and made shopping so easy we can get what we want with a simple click or a wave of a debit card. Although technological advances have also made homeschooling easier, there is one aspect to teaching our children at home that can't be fast forwarded — your children's spiritual growth. Developing biblical values and godly character requires a daily, concentrated effort in building God's truths precept upon precept. Money simply cannot buy "instant access" to Christianity or purchase short cuts in learning God's lessons in humility, obedience, and submission.

Trying to "fast track" Christianity has been a problem since the Lord returned to heaven. In Acts 8:13-24, Simon, the ex-magician, thought he could bypass the disciplines of being trained in righteousness. Wanting to impress the crowds and perform miracles like Peter, Simon offered money to find a shortcut to the Holy Spirit's power. Rebuking him for his fleshly attempts to control God, Peter said, "Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God." Acts 8:20b-21

What about you? Are you guilty of looking for shortcuts in your spiritual growth? Quick prayers and short devotionals are not enough. Spend time alone with the Lord today in prayer and Bible study and let the Holy Spirit reveal those changes that need to take place in your life. "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection." Hebrews 6:1a

Lord, forgive me for being like a child and looking for the easy way out of Your lessons. Help me to walk with You today and not to run ahead of the disciplines that teach me Your truths. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Quiet Encouragement

"But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly." Matthew 6:3-4

Children love secrets, and one joy I experienced as a homeschooling parent was teaching my children the thrill of being secret gift-givers. Following Christ's illustration in Matthew 6, I encouraged them to ask God's guidance to think of ways to bless their family, friends, and neighbors. At first, this task was difficult, since little ones like to tell everything they know. However, as my children grew older, not only did they become thoughtful and generous givers, they also became quite adept in disguising any connection with the gift. Countless times, I found myself humbled and encouraged when receiving a gift at day's end without knowing who had laid the treasure on my pillow.

What about your homeschooling family? In a world where most people are trying to take and get ahead, teaching your children to give secret gifts from God can seem quite contrary. Like Christ Jesus who died for us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8), help them bless another homeschool family, church family, or unsaved neighbor near you today. Let your children discover the exciting truth of Acts 20:35b: "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Father, every good and perfect gift is from You, and we can only give away what You have already given to us. Use our family to be a secret blessing to someone today, and may You receive all the glory and praise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Ongoing Battle

Is homeschooling here to stay? According to recent statistics, over two million children homeschool in the United States. Organized state associations, local support groups, and Internet forums, blogs, and websites give homeschoolers a sense of security that the public accepts home education as a viable educational alternative. Recently, even Justice Clarence Thomas of the U.S. Supreme Court listed homeschooling as a viable educational option in a ruling in Morse v. Frederick.

However, those who oppose homeschooling are still alive and well. Like Tobiah and Sanballat's opposition to Nehemiah's rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall (Nehemiah 6), there are those who war daily against homeschooling and its philosophy. In case you doubt this fact, let me share some comments I've recently read on blogs about homeschooling:

Christians, too, must realize our war with Satan never ceases. Until Christ returns, we will face daily battles against evil. We may think that once we've received Jesus as our Savior, we'll never deal with adversity again. However, nothing is further from the truth. In 1 Peter 5:8, we are warned to "be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."

Although Christ has already defeated sin and death, we must earnestly stand against the wiles of the devil to remain victorious in our Christian life. Like the opponents of homeschooling, we must be aware that Satan is ever out to destroy us. Only as we stand strong in God's truths and the Holy Spirit's power will we be able to overcome evil with good. "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil" (Ephesians 6:10-11).

Lord, thank You for the victory that was won on the cross. Teach me to walk in Your truth and power that I might stand against Satan and his lies. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

The Great Pretender

"Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do." Hebrews 4:13

Someone has once said that children can see right through you. If you doubt, watch as you attempt to teach your children or a class of young people. If you are nervous, scared, or unprepared, they will quickly take advantage of your weakness.

Your credibility as a homeschool teacher will also be compromised when you pretend you know the answers to all the questions your children ask. Admitting you don't know and saying, "Let's find the answer together," will hold "more stock" than pretending.

God knows when you are pretending with Him as well. You may try to hide behind righteous actions, but He can see the condition of your heart. Christ had much to say about the Pharisee hypocrites of His day when He was here on earth. He rebuked them by saying, "Woe to you!" and called them "white sepulchres" who were clean on the outside but not on the inside. He condemned them for their pretending.

What about you? Are you pretending today? Do you change your speech or actions depending on whom you are with? God can see right through you. He knows your heart and what you really think. What He desires is your broken heart instead of your false worship. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise." Psalm 51:17

Heavenly Father, forgive me for thinking I am righteous because of my actions. I know You paid the price on the cross for my sins, and without Your forgiveness, all my deeds are as filthy rags. Help me to be real today and truly worship You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pillow Talk

"But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God" (1 Corinthians 2:10).

As I opened my eyes to another homeschooling day, sunlight was just beginning to filter through my bedroom windows. Realizing that I had slept through the alarm, I quickly threw back the covers to jump out of bed and start breakfast. However, as I did, I was surprised to find my two youngest children snuggled in my blankets. Quietly waiting for me to wake up, they were holding a book and eager to continue reading the story we had only half finished the day before. Smiling, I said, "Okay, let's just start school right now." Tucking each child in the blankets on either side of me, I opened their book, and we began to read together. For the next thirty minutes, we all enjoyed our unconventional classroom, and I thanked God again for the spontaneous joys of homeschooling.

Like the unexpected learning moments that occur in homeschooling, we never know when the Holy Spirit is going to speak to our hearts. As God impresses His Word upon our minds in Bible study or miraculously chooses to answer a specific request when we're on our knees in prayer, we experience a special touch of God's goodness and mercy. As we are snuggled in the warmth of our Father's love, the Holy Spirit teaches us the truth (John 16:13a) and gives us a taste of our future home in heaven, Ephesians 1:14. Even when we are at our weakest and God seems far away, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us "with groanings which cannot be uttered." Romans 8:26b

What a wonderful God we serve! Praise Him, as He touches your life today with special moments of understanding and love. "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints." Ephesians 1:17-18

Heavenly Father, thank You for the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life. I praise You for the power and divine wisdom that comes from above, and I worship You for revealing Your will in my life each day. Please, draw me ever closer to You! In Jesus' name, Amen.

Saving Sammy

"Quench not the Spirit." 1 Thessalonians 5:19

Have you ever had those moments in time when you saw something about to happen, but felt helpless to stop it? I was having one of those moments as I watched my son's black lab take notice of a car coming over the hill over a mile away from our home. In that instant, I could see and sense what was about to happen in my mind.

For several months, we had included dog obedience training in my son's homeschool curriculum. Both my son and I had become frustrated with his black lab, Sammy. We had taught him many things, but the one thing we couldn't teach him was to give up chasing cars. Even though we had a long driveway and lived in the country, our space wasn't enough for him. We had even resorted to tying him up, but today we had let him loose to play as we worked outside.

Before I could grab the collar on this fifty-pound fireball, Sammy started running toward the car he had seen. Both my son and I ran after him, screaming for him to stop. Everything went into slow motion, as I saw that the dog and the car were on a collision course. We did all we could, but Sammy would not obey and stop. He was broadsided by the car at 50 mph.

The disobedience of Sammy provided a significant spiritual lesson for my son. Although Sammy had learned to do many things right, his death was caused by the one vice he refused to give up: wanting his own way. He literally ran headlong into trouble, and met death at the end.

God grieves over your sinful disobedience each day, too. You let the Holy Spirit teach you the Word, but then refuse to be disciplined in the areas you are weakest. Because you do not see an immediate consequence, you run headlong into your vices of laziness, selfishness, or criticizing, and think they will never hurt you. But you are always on a collision course when you remain in known sin. The Holy Spirit is quenched by your defiance, and soon you are unable to hear His voice calling you back. Don't wait for a wreck to turn you around. Stop and yield your life to the Lord, today! "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 12:1

Jesus, I can't hear You right now, and it seems like Your voice has been quiet for a long time. Forgive me for allowing sins to remain in my life after You have taught me the truth. I repent today and ask You to fill me anew with the Holy Spirit. In Your precious name, Amen.

Back-to-School Tools

Would you like to know the best back-to-school item to have for a profitable year of
homeschooling? No, it’s not a new computer, and it’s not a new microscope, math manipulative, or the latest educational game. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that the most effective tool you have is simply the positive words you use to encourage your child. No high-tech gadget or apparatus can ever leave as profound an effect on your child’s education as saying things like, “Wow, you did a great job on that test!” and “How did you learn that so quickly?” Though it seems too good to be true, affirming your child with words of praise is the quickest way to motivate him to higher academic achievement.

As Christians, God also knows how encouraging words will help us achieve success in our spiritual walk. Repeatedly, His Word provides the words we need to hear to encourage us through life’s hardest lessons. Read His promises to those who are in Christ Jesus:

“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” Romans 8:37
“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” 1 John 4:4

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57

Do you find yourself apprehensive as you face a new homeschooling year? Don’t despair. The tool that will help your children achieve academic success is the same tool God uses to help you. The King of the Universe loves you and will encourage you to achieve even more than you dreamed possible. “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:26

Lord, thank You for Your encouraging words that fill me with hope and joy. Please help me to seek You each day as we homeschool to achieve all You have planned for our family. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

Homeschool Complaints

"Do all things without murmurings and disputings." Philippians 2:14

Is your homeschool infected with the whining disease? Like the early stages of most health problems, you may not recognize its symptoms at first. When assigning schoolwork, especially in your child's least favorite subject, this dreaded disease usually starts with an exasperated sigh. Next, it spreads into a short question such as, "Do I have to do this assignment?" If not diagnosed and treated early, the whining disease finally takes over your homeschool completely until you hear things like, "Why do I always have so much schoolwork to do? I don't want to do this!"

Whining, grumbling, murmuring, and complaining all stem from the same, sinful problem - rebellion. In Numbers 12, God reveals His attitude towards this deadly disease when dealing with the murmuring of Miriam and Aaron. Thinking they knew better than their brother, Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses and said, "Hath the LORD indeed spoken only by Moses? hath he not spoken also by us" (Numbers 12:2b)? God heard their whining and quickly applied His cure. Calling all three to the tent of meeting, He defended Moses' leadership and struck Miriam with leprosy for seven days.

Are you allowing a whining, rebellious spirit in your homeschool? Unfortunately, children are not the only ones who can become infected with this disease. Parents, too, can find themselves easily complaining to God about the sacrifice and work responsibilities involved with homeschooling. Don't allow a negative spirit to destroy your homeschool family. Like Aaron, confess your foolish complaints. Pray for the joy of homeschooling to be restored in your home.

Father, forgive me for murmuring against Your plan for our family. Teach me to treasure each day with my children and give me a thankful heart for both the blessings and responsibilities of homeschooling. In Jesus' name, Amen.

By Their Fruits

How long do you need to teach your children at home before you "officially" become a homeschool family? Like the tests that evaluate a child's academic performance, you can assume homeschooling has arrived at your house when the following are true:

You have more books in your house than groceries.

Your children show up for school in their pajamas.

Your house décor consists of time lines, maps, assorted craft projects, and half-finished science experiments.

Your trips to the library require a laundry basket to hold all the books.

Your refrigerator is perpetually covered in art projects and completed assignments.

Your children think reading history is best achieved while lying on your bed with the family cats.

Your kitchen pantry holds more school supplies than cooking supplies.

Your child's favorite classmates are his siblings.

Christians, too, have distinct marks that help us gauge whether we are growing more Christ-like. In Galatians 5:22 we read of fruits that should be displayed if we are truly following the Lord-love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. As these fruits become more evident in our lives, we can trust the Holy Spirit is working to conform us to the image of Christ. Romans 8:29 What about your life? Is there fruit that proves you're a follower of Jesus? "Ye shall know them by their fruits." Matthew 7:16a

Lord, thank You for the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Let my actions demonstrate Your love not only to my family, but also to the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Secondhand Lessons

"Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3b).

Much like the rural, one-room schoolhouse of years ago, homeschooling families enjoy the unique benefits of learning academics together. After practicing our multiplication tables one morning, I quizzed my daughter and asked, "What is four times five?" Expecting her to answer, I was totally surprised when my four-year-old son replied nonchalantly, "Twenty." Sitting on the floor quietly playing with his toy cars, I didn't realize how much he had overheard during our math lesson. Without even knowing it, my young son had learned the same information by hearing me teach his older sister.

Academics weren't the only lessons shared in our home. Dealing with toddler and preteen issues and bringing them under God's lordship were eye-openers for all ages. Not only did my younger children glean biblical wisdom from their idolized, older siblings, my older children also understood God's design involved in rearing a family and the responsibilities of setting a godly example. In addition, the faith of my little ones taught me incredible spiritual lessons of God's love and forgiveness. Truthfully, I know I wouldn't be the Christian I am today without having learned just as much from my children as they did from me.

What lesson is God trying to teach you through your children today? You may think you are the teacher, but as you learn, love, and live together as a Christian homeschool family, God has a few secondhand lessons for you to learn as well. "Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:4

Heavenly Father, thank You for the wonderful opportunities You've given to learn from each other as we homeschool. Help me to hear You speak through my children's hearts and to know You're guiding us in Your wisdom each day. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

"That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate" (1 Timothy 6:18).

The yelling echoed off the walls of our schoolroom for the last time that day. All three of my homeschool students were being sent to different corners for another timeout. I shook my head as I walked away and wondered, "Why is sharing so difficult for young children? They are always worried about getting their ‘fair share' of everything!" The new art supplies we had purchased were an enticement to selfishness, but certainly not worth the name-calling and fighting I had been hearing. Today was another opportunity to help my children understand that God gives us everything we need. We can afford to share with others.

Christ is our best example in teaching sharing. Philippians 2:3-8 says, "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Christ gave up everything to come to earth to suffer and take your place for the punishment of your sins. He is the One who willingly shared His life so you could receive forgiveness of sin and eternal life. According to Hebrews 12:10, we even can share in His holiness because of the sacrifice He gave in dying on the cross.

Has your house been experiencing the "It's mine" syndrome? Don't allow this attitude to take root in the heart of your child or yourself. Remember, everything we have has been given to us by the Lord. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights." James 1:17a

Father, I know how selfish I can be. You are the One who has blessed me with everything, and I am not my own. Help me acknowledge my dependence on You and share all that I am with others today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

No Other Gods

“Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image” (Exodus 20:3-4a).

Somewhere in my homeschooling experience, my children became the focus of not only my day, but also my entire life. I found myself thinking of their needs constantly and became self-absorbed in making their lives happy and successful. Although a measure of this devotion and attention was appropriate, there was a surplus of affection that was being misdirected. My children had become my idols who I worshiped with all my energy and time.

Lovingly, God set a course of events to correct me of my mistake. The lesson culminated when I read the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22. Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son on an altar in worship to the Lord convicted me. I knew I loved my four children too much to let them go. The thought of losing them at a young age was more than I could bear. Somehow I knew God was asking me to lay them, my greatest treasures, at His feet. Living for the Lord first and serving my family second was the correct order of priorities.

Have your children become your idols? You may not think so, but evaluate your thought life, your daily schedule, and your heart. Who is the object of your worship and devotion—Jesus or your family? Don’t rob God of the devotion due to Him. “Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God.” Exodus 20:5a

Heavenly Father, forgive me for putting my children before You. All I have is from You, including my family. Today, I’m making You the first priority in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Connecting the Dots

“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).

“Dot-to-Dots” were one of my children’s favorite math worksheets. Each time we used this method to review counting in our homeschool math lesson, my children excitedly followed the dots and guessed what the picture would be when they were done. However, in their excitement to finish, sometimes they would hurry too fast. They would count incorrectly, miss a number, and the result would be a distorted picture. Forced to start over, they would begin again and count more carefully until they finally exclaimed, “Look at what I made!”

Like the “Dot-to-Dots” in my children’s lessons, God also gives us wisdom and guidance one step at a time. Teaching us to number our days and to live by faith, He slowly reveals the perfect picture for our lives. As we seek His face each morning and walk in His understanding, He provides what we need to recognize the next step. Even when Satan tempts us to hurry and make life work out on our own, God gently corrects us as a master teacher and gently leads us back where we need to be. Lovingly, He teaches us to follow His pattern to proclaim, “Look what God has made out of my life!”

How about you? Are you counting on your own strength to see you through homeschooling this year, or are you obediently seeking God’s wisdom for each day’s lessons? Don’t let your homeschooling family get off track. Count on the One who has counted every hair on your head (Matthew 10:30) and star in the sky (Psalm 147:4) and let Him guide you in the perfect path. “Doth not he see my ways, and count all my steps” (Job 31:4)?

Lord, sometimes homeschooling seems like a maze, and I don’t know where to go next. Please lead me and show me how to teach with Your guidance, power, and wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Escape Routes

“The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations.” 2 Peter 2:9a

From the time my children were old enough to understand, fire drills were part of our homeschool safety lessons. Sounding the smoke alarm, I instructed each child how to escape in the event of a house fire. My children always thought it was great fun to climb out their bedroom window and meet outside at our flag pole. In fact, they each learned their escape routes so well, it only took a matter of seconds to vacate the house.

As my children grew into their teens, I realized they faced another danger as hazardous as fire – peer pressure. Knowing they needed an escape route to walk away from ungodly temptations, I said, “Whenever you find yourself in a bad situation and you need to get out, you can use me for an excuse. Don’t let others lead you into sin or just sit there and get burned. Get out as soon as you smell the smoke and say, ‘I have to go home early tonight,’ or ‘My parents need help at home.’”

God also provides an escape route when Satan tempts His children. Knowing we are not able to say “No” in our own strength, God makes a way for us to run from evil before it consumes us. Whether we struggle with procrastination, discouragement, or impure thoughts, 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” Let the Lord reveal your personal escape route from the temptation you’re facing today, and then get out as fast as you can!

Father, my flesh is weak and sin’s desires seem so appealing. Help me walk in obedience to Your Word and show me the way to escape the temptations that are causing me to sin against You. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33

I felt like Old Mother Hubbard as I went to the kitchen cupboards that morning. I don't know why I even bothered to look. I knew there was nothing in them to make a meal for my four young children. The situation looked rather bleak for a cook who could make a meal out of just flour, eggs, and milk, but today I didn't even have those ingredients. I looked out the window at the winter snow that covered my garden-no vegetables to be found there. What was I going to do?

My husband was on a short-term mission in Africa, and I was all alone, homeschooling our children in the middle of winter. I had no money, no food, and no way to even get out from the blizzard that had blocked our long driveway to our country home. I began to think about how we had prayed and asked the Lord for opportunities to serve Him in missions. God had assured us through His Word that He would keep His promises to take care of us-but now I had four pairs of hungry eyes wondering what their mother was going to do.

I don't know what came over me that morning. I opened every cupboard door and the refrigerator. I sat the children down in the middle of the kitchen, and we began to pray. I almost shouted at God when I spoke and reminded Him that He had promised to take care of us. Right now we had nothing-nothing to eat, no one to help, and no escape. Just the night before I had read in Psalm 37:25, "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread." I prayed that God would keep His promises, but things didn't look too good.

To be continued next.

Father God, I'm afraid and cry out to You like David, "What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee" (Psalm 56:3). Show me the way and give me the strength to walk in Your will. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Old Mother Hubbard (Part 2)

"And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear" (Isaiah 65:24).

When we were done praying, my children and I got up and started our day. Not even thirty minutes had passed when I heard a pick-up truck coming up our driveway. Unbelievably, our pastor from a town 15 miles away walked up to the door and handed me an envelope. The pastor said someone at church had given the envelope to him on Sunday, but he didn't know what was in it. He just "happened to be going" to the town near our home and had decided to drop off the envelope. Then, just that quickly, he was gone.

I stood there with the envelope in my hand and opened it. The hundred dollar bill inside may as well have been a thousand dollars to me. I knew the money was God's answer to our prayers. I quickly bundled all the children in their coats and drove to town, following the path our pastor's truck had made in our driveway. God was going to fill up all those empty cupboards!

I never knew who our benefactor was, but I did learn a valuable lesson I have never forgotten. God is able to show Himself the mightiest when we are the weakest. "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him" (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Lord, what a great and mighty God You are! Never let me forget that my very breath is in Your hands. Thank You for always keeping Your promises and providing what I need. I worship You alone. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Homeschooling's Price

“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.”
Galatians 2:20a

I’m feeling selfish today. I look at the schoolwork waiting to be corrected and this week’s lesson plans still waiting to be finished, and I want to escape somewhere. My life seems like it’s not my own, and I resent the fact that I can’t do what I want, when I want. Homeschooling requires me to be so disciplined, and I’m starting to feel trapped. I want to take a break from housework, diapers, schedules, and endless questions, but I’m the one in charge. I feel like a huge burden is on my back.

Does the above scenario describe you today? Do you wish you could experience the wonderful benefits of homeschooling and escape the responsibilities? Sorry, but it doesn’t work that way. If you want your children to achieve academic, as well as spiritual success, you have to give yourself 100% and commit to homeschooling. Like the man who calculated the cost in building a tower or the king who assessed his army before he went to war (Luke 14:27-33), following the Lord’s call to homeschool your children requires giving your all. Yes, God knows when you need to rest and will show you how to catch your breath, but He also asks His disciples to carry their cross. So who will you follow today, yourself or the Lord? “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23b

Lord, forgive my attitude and help me refocus on the call You gave to homeschool. Teach me again that Your will and Your way is better than any life I can conceive. I love You and thank You for my family. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Second Chances

"For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee" (Isaiah 54:10).

How many times in your life have you wished to go back in time and do something over? Maybe you wouldn't have bought that expensive car, chosen that college, or passed up an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus. All of us would like a "do over" in something.

Praise God, He is a God of second chances. He forgave David of his sin with Bathsheba and continued to use him as king over Israel. After Moses tried to deliver God's people his way, God brought Moses back to Egypt to lead His people to the Promised Land. Jonah reached the sinful city of Ninevah with the message of repentance after first disobeying and running away from God.

If you feel like a homeschooling failure, this message is for you! Don't give up! Pray and ask the Lord to show you how to homeschool. Try a different curriculum or change your daily schedule. Homeschooling is flexible. Start over and find a routine that works for your family. God will help you again. "It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness."

Lamentations 3:22-23

Jesus, my heart cries out to You today. I've been homeschooling on my own for too long. Show me again the right way to teach my children. In Your name, Amen.

"And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long" (Psalm 35:28).

During the early 1980s, there were few voices that publicly championed the cause of homeschooling. Fortunately, the men and women who did speak out were effective, powerful, and passionate communicators who left a lasting impact on my life. As a young parent with two preschool-aged children, I paid attention to their knowledgeable research, books, and advice against traditional schooling. Willing to go against the flow, they set the precedent for today's modern homeschooling movement and inspired thousands of homeschooling families just like mine to do the same.

After Christ's ascension to heaven, perhaps no other man furthered the cause of Christ during Bible times more than the Apostle Paul. Being willing to go to the Gentiles, he too set a new precedent when sharing the Gospel message. The Jewish leaders were upset as Paul established new churches with thousands of Gentile believers who came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. As these new believers suffered for their faith, they also boldly spoke the truth of Christ crucified, and the world was forever changed.

How about you? Are you willing to speak for God in today's world? Although you may be tempted to succumb to the world's intimidation, you have an opportunity to use your voice to speak out for Jesus. As you homeschool, know your Bible and boldly share its truths. Then watch as God uses you to make a difference in the lives of your children, as well as countless others. May we all be like Paul when he declared, "That therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak." Ephesians 6:20b

Lord, give me courage to declare You as Lord, and let me be as the early believers when they prayed, "Grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word." Acts 4:29 In Jesus' name, Amen.

Holding Grudges

For several days, I had been watching my oldest son and daughter interact. Like a pending thunderstorm, something was definitely brewing between them. The conflict began when my exuberant son ruined his sister’s art project by running excitedly through the room. Although the damage was unintentional, my son’s less-than-sincere apology awakened a vengeful spirit in my daughter’s heart. The conflict culminated the following day when my son again raced through the room and ruined another project of my daughter’s. Exasperated, my daughter responded by intentionally destroying her brother’s history project.

Forgiving others can be difficult for many people, especially when a close friend or family member has wronged you. Are you the type of person who silently waits for an opportunity to get even or relishes the idea of paybacks? “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Romans 12:17-19

God sees the wrongs you experience in life. Jesus suffered the greatest injustices when He was on earth and showed us how to respond to them. “Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously” (1 Peter 2:23). Can you commit the injustice you are now facing to the Lord? Will you let go of the grudge you are holding and forgive? “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14

Lord, I know I should forgive the wrong done to me, but something within me wants to hold on to this pain. I realize that keeping this hurt will only make this situation worse. Help me follow Your example and release this pain by forgiving. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Transitions

“And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness.” Isaiah 35:8a

After the initial excitement wears off, the first year of homeschooling can seem quite challenging. Parents and children adjust to new routines, and things don’t always go as smoothly as planned. Gears grind as schedules get interrupted, children misbehave, and new disciplines are learned. During this crucial transition period, many homeschoolers feel overwhelmed and think they made a mistake. Some even give up and say, “Homeschooling is too hard, and it’s not for me.”

Shifting gears to homeschooling doesn’t have to be difficult if God is in control. Like an automatic transmission smoothly brings a car up to speed, God’s presence and power provides the finely-tuned peace and patience that keeps your homeschooling successfully cruising down the road. Whether you’re facing bad attitudes, deprogramming your children from public education, or simply learning how to use your curriculum effectively, God’s wisdom will guide you if you ask for it. James 1:5

What’s the status of your homeschooling today? Is your patience blown like a steaming radiator? Is your engine running rough as you power through the day in your own strength? Don’t call the tow truck to send your homeschooling to the salvage yard just yet. Give God the wheel and let the Holy Spirit overhaul your homeschooling to start enjoying the ride of your life! “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” Jeremiah 33:3

Father, please guide me today as our family travels down the homeschooling highway. Empower me with the Holy Spirit and fill me with Your presence to keep going when the road gets bumpy.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Glory Days

"I'm bored," complained my oldest son. "I don't have anything to do." Normally, those words created images of countless tasks to give my son during our homeschool day. However, today I sensed the Lord asking me to teach a lesson from His Word instead.

"Mountaintop experiences don't happen every day," I said. "You'll find that life is usually 80% ordinary and 20% extraordinary. Most of your life will involve being faithful in the normal everyday routine, but when God chooses, He will give something that changes your life forever."

Exciting experiences can be bought in this life, but the life-changing moments that give true satisfaction and fulfillment come only through the power of the Holy Spirit. Think of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who faithfully lived a quiet life until the angel Gabriel told her she would give birth to the Savior. Joseph became ruler over Egypt after years of suffering and separation from family. Moses met God through a burning bush after forty years of isolated living as a shepherd.

Looking back on your life, how many extraordinary moments have you had? Faithfully serving God in the ordinary makes you a candidate to serve God in the extraordinary. "His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord" (Matthew 25:21).

Father, help me remember that You have a special plan and purpose for my life. May I be found faithful in the everyday things, so I am ready for the extraordinary when they come. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Tragic Memories

There are certain moments in time that people vividly remember in connection with a certain date in history. My mother can recall exactly where and what she was doing when Pearl Harbor was attacked in World War II. I can recall where and what I was doing when John F. Kennedy was shot. My daughter now recalls where and what she was doing the day the World Trade Center twin towers burned and crashed to the ground. For three days, homeschooling stopped, and we, along with millions of others, watched the awful events of those days. Her thoughts are forever recorded below in her poem written shortly after that tragic day:

September 11, 2001

Out of the clear blue sky
I saw thousands die.
I saw people jump to their death.
I saw America hold its breath.

I saw the sadness of the world.
I saw the flag at half staff furled.
I saw the grief of a President.
I saw America lose its innocence.

I see the towers fall in my mind.
I think I've seen it a hundred times.
I saw America cry and pray.
I will never forget that horrible day.

I saw acts of the most evil kind.
I know we can never turn back time.
I'll remember those who fight to save
Freedom, in the land of the brave.

Even in our darkest moments in time, we can know God is with us. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:35, 38-39

Dear God, thank you that even in tragic times when the world is falling down around us, we are conquerors through Him who loved us!

Homeschool Firsts

Do you remember the first time your baby smiled at you? How about your baby’s first tooth, his first word, and his first step? As parents, we treasure these precious moments and record, photograph, and preserve them in our children’s baby books. But God has given additional “firsts” to homeschooling parents—our child’s first ABC’s, first time counting from one to ten, first book read alone, and more! All these first experiences with our children are lasting memories that are priceless.

Jesus enjoys us, too, as His first fruits: “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures” (James 1:18). The blood He gave when dying on the cross was for you. He even recorded your name in His Book of Life when you repented and received His forgiveness of sin. Now and for eternity, you can experience His presence. He looks forward to each new “first” in your growing faith and treasures you as His precious child. Hallelujah!

Lord God, thank You for Your wonderful love for me! I can hardly begin to fathom Your thoughts toward me as Your child. I lift my heart in praise to You, Almighty One! In Your Son’s name, Amen.

One More

“For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” Psalm 51:3

As a homeschooling family, does it seem like your laundry is an endless assignment that never gets completed? As my son and I finished the last load one morning before starting school, my daughter walked in with yet another basket of dirty clothes. With his sense of accomplishment deflated once again, my son turned to me and said, “I think taking care of dirty laundry is like fighting against sin. There’s always one more waiting to be cleaned.”

My son’s analogy may have seemed trite, but the more I thought, I realized he was correct. Until Christ returns, we will continue to fight temptation as we live in sinful, fallen bodies. Although the Holy Spirit dwells in every believer, the dirty ugliness of sin is constantly being revealed in our lives. Like another basket full of unclean clothes, our sins must be confessed daily and cleansed before the Lord (1 John 1:9).

Is it time to start another load of wash in your spiritual life this morning? Even though the battle may seem to never end, take heart. One day we will receive glorified bodies and stand before the Lord washed in the blood of the Lamb. Praise God, there will be an end to sin and the dirty mess it causes! “So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).

Father God, how I look forward to the day when sin and death are forever defeated! Today I cry out once again like David, “Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.” Psalm 51:2 In the name of Jesus, Amen.

No Fear

"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD." Psalm 31:24

Let's face the facts. There are some people who shouldn't homeschool their children. For whatever reason, they lack the resources or ability to teach, and their children would do better in a conventional school setting. However, there is another side to the coin. Many parents who should be schooling their children at home, aren't. Responding in fearful apprehension, they use the excuse, "It's great others can homeschool, but I could never do that!" The status quo or their own inhibitions have convinced them of failure, while God waits for them to believe in His wisdom and guidance for success.

Many great leaders in the Bible faced similar initial fears. Moses, Joshua, and Gideon all experienced anxiety and thought, "This job is too big for me." Afraid to try and wanting to quit before they even started, God challenged them to reach out and trust Him for courage and strength. God graciously gave Moses a spokesperson in Aaron, Joshua was given encouragement at Jericho by God's holy messenger, and Gideon received confirmation of his call through a fleece that was both wet and dry. Stepping out from behind their fearful excuses, they were used greatly by God to accomplish His will.

What task has God set before you that you're afraid to attempt? In addition to homeschooling, is He asking you to work with the church youth group, serve in a short-term mission, or start a Bible study in your home? Whatever His leading might be, don't let fear stop you from stepping out in faith. God is mighty, and He will go before you and help you accomplish great things for His glory. "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not." Jeremiah 33:3

Lord, forgive me for being afraid to follow You. Sometimes what You ask seems too big for me to accomplish. Use me for Your glory and strengthen me now to follow You in obedience. In Jesus' name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

One Step Back

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10

Have you ever started your day sensing something was wrong with your homeschooling? As I crawled out from under the covers, I knew we needed to set the academics aside and let the day just happen. Our family relationships had been growing distant, the stress level had been building, and our homeschooling was feeling more like a chore than a blessing. Our family needed to experience the joy of being together again. Phonics rules, spelling words, and algebraic equations could wait. Today, I simply wanted to enjoy my precious children and play.

Our relationship with God can also get misconstrued as we grow in Christ. We forget that God is more concerned about being with us than our concern of doing things for Him. We hurry from one worthwhile ministry to the next and fill our lives with noble schedules for winning the lost or discipling new believers. However, even as Mary chose to worship and sit at the Master's feet, we also must step back and rediscover the simple joy of being with Jesus. No schedules, no events, no projects-just quietly loving our Lord and relishing His presence.

Can you remember the last time you relaxed and enjoyed the day for what it was-a chance to breathe and live as you take in the goodness of God's creation and love? Today's the day to take one step back, turn off the noise, and listen to the silence. Drink in the beauty of your Creator and rejoice as God speaks to your heart! "In thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." Psalm 16:11b

Lord, I love You so much. I bow before You in worship and praise You for Your loving goodness. Hallelujah, I give You this day and rejoice in Your presence! In Jesus' name, Amen.

Obedient Love

Homeschool disciplining would be easier if, like new clothes, our children came with a label. Directions would clearly state whether to use hot (spanking), warm (time out), or cold (grounded) water and when to line dry (take away privileges) or tumble dry (extra chores-community service). Unfortunately, our children don't come with wash and wear tags. We must rely on the Lord's wisdom to guide us when correcting and instructing our children in obedience.

Since all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), teaching our children to be obedient is a big part of a homeschooling parent's day. Training in righteousness falls on us, and we must teach our children to embrace the truth of Ephesians 6:1: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right." However, building this godly character trait takes time. As homeschooling parents persist in their disciplining efforts, children eventually learn to be obedient both to parents and the Lord.

Christian parents must also learn to be obedient to the Lord. We may say we love the Lord, but often we fail to prove this love with our actions. Like a rebellious child, we pout, talk back, and demand our own way. God gives us the example of obedience in His Son: "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered" (Hebrews 5:8). Will you seek to show your true love for the Lord by obeying and doing what He asks? "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." John 14:21

Lord, like a parent, You lovingly remind me to obey You each day because You wish to bless me. Help me discover the depth of Your love and thoughts of Your heart by honoring You and doing what You've asked. In Your name, Amen.

Fresh Starts

Every August, our homeschooling year started the same way. After the brown delivery truck left our driveway, four excited children would eagerly tear open the boxes of curriculum. Workbooks and teacher's guides would be laid on the floor and quickly checked against the packing slip. Then, like openings gifts on Christmas morning, my children would delightfully spend the rest of the day thumbing through the pages of their new curriculum. Inevitably, the fresh, colorful workbooks caused everyone to become so motivated, we would begin homeschooling the very same day.

Fresh starts are even more exciting in the Christian life. Helping someone come to an understanding of sin and to knowing the joy of God's forgiveness, is by far the greatest blessing you can experience. The eager anticipation and thirst for God in a new believer is contagious. Wanting to grow and know God more deeply through His Word, these new Christians pass their enthusiasm to older saints and challenge them to grow in their faith as well.

When was the last time you told someone about the saving love of Jesus? If your walk with God seems dry and worn out, today's the day to give yourself and someone else a fresh start in Christ. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17

Lord, thank You for the exciting message of Your forgiveness and love! Help me to share it anew today with someone who desperately needs to experience Your grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Hang Up the Phone

Distractions-they can eat up a day of schooling faster than you know, and there seems to always be plenty to choose from. Many days I've wondered, "Where did the time go?" The time I lost was usually spent on things that seemed beneficial or constructive. One of these was the temptation to answer the phone. After all, it may be an emergency, right?

A ringing phone for me was like a piece of candy to a child-not to be resisted. Besides, who can stand listening to a ringing phone? Being on the phone seemed innocent enough, until my children needed me. Oftentimes, they would have to wait to have their questions answered until I was done talking to a friend. "Just let it ring" became my children's motto.

Do you feel like you are always behind and homeschooling is becoming a burden? Pray to ask God to show you what activities need to be eliminated from your daily schedule. Homeschooling is too important to your children's future to not give it your best effort. Get rid of those distractions that may be worthwhile in themselves, but eat too much of your time each day. "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1

Lord, help me to prioritize my schedule today and not be taken in by those things that distract me. My children are depending on me to teach them, and I need Your wisdom to know what is valuable and what isn't. In Jesus' name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

Homeschool Stereotypes

“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21

As a homeschooling parent, have you ever known the frustration of being stereotyped? Unfairly, mainstream America has deemed us unfashionable, overly protective, dogmatically religious, and socially backwards. Like other stereotypes that develop from negative assumptions, homeschooling parents suffer from unjust labels with unfounded perceptions of their true character. Added to this misconception is the fact that homeschooled children are also stereotyped.

Breaking loose from these hurtful stereotypes is difficult, but as Christian homeschooling families, we can change how the world views us. Instead of becoming defensive and argumentative when homeschooling adversaries slander our name, we can show God’s love through our Christ-like character and actions. Whether we’re shopping at the mall, attending a community event, or eating at a restaurant, we can erase incorrect images with courtesy, respect, and genuine concern for others. In addition, godly homeschoolers can best illustrate one reason for teaching our own children by displaying a servant’s heart that looks for ways to help others in need. Christ Himself said it best in the Sermon on the Mount: “Bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44b).

Do you struggle with vengeful thoughts when others look down on you for homeschooling? Don’t let the homeschool stereotype discourage you. Prove those labels wrong, and respond to the negative remarks with the love of Christ. After all, isn’t that the most important message we’re trying to teach our children as we homeschool? “For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds” (Hebrews 12:3).

Lord, forgive my anger when others make fun of us for homeschooling. Help me to tell them of homeschooling’s blessings and to show the same love You did when mankind mocked and ridiculed You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Too Many Loads

“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” Psalm 55:22

Does your burden seem heavy today? Too many loads of laundry, too many ungraded papers, half-finished art projects, or birthday cards left unwritten? Sometimes we are overwhelmed with all that has to be done as a homeschooling parent.

God sees and knows your burdens. He cares and will provide the strength you need to face each day’s tasks. Matthew 11:28 tells us, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Just when you think you can’t do another thing, trust God to send help in the most unexpected way. Homeschooling forces us parents into knowing that it is not by might, nor by power, but by His Spirit that we are able to love and teach the children He has given us. Take heart and know that He will never leave you nor forsake you. After all, these are His children, and He will keep His promise to lift every burden you have.

Lord, I feel so tired. Please fill me with Your strength to make it through today. Thank You for Your promises and not giving me more than what I can bear. Please send the help I need to face all the tasks before me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

Young Love

“Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.”
Proverbs 18:22

I’ll never forget the day my son declared his future marriage intentions. As we sat in church Sunday morning waiting for the service to begin, a new family filed in and sat in the pew opposite ours. For the next several minutes, I watched as my son observed the youngest female member of their family—a vibrant, freckle-faced redhead with a smile that went from ear to ear. Just as the pastor stood up to announce the first hymn, my son pulled on my sleeve and nodded towards the crimson-haired beauty. With all the earnestness a six-year-old could muster, he proclaimed, “Mommy, someday I’m going to marry a girl just like that!”

Although my young son’s innocence made me smile, I was convicted that day to begin praying for my children’s future spouses. With the world’s philosophy quickly redefining marriage, I realized fewer young people were willing to honor the spiritual truths of Hebrews 13:4a, “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled.” If marriage was God’s will for my children’s future, I needed to be on my knees in prayer for them. Like Abraham’s concern for Isaac, I knew God desired my children to be yoked equally to another believer (2 Corinthians 6:14).

As a Christian homeschooling parent, what are you teaching your children about marriage? Are you displaying a godly role model and encouraging them to follow the Lord, as they wait on His will and timing for a future mate? Six-year-old boys and girls grow up, and they’ll be looking to you for guidance and wisdom. Teach them what God says about true love in His Word, so they can make the right decision that lasts a lifetime. “Charity never faileth” (1 Corinthians 13:8a).

Father, as I homeschool my children today, their marriage and future adult responsibilities seem so far away. Help me to prepare them for life, not only with academics, but also with a clear understanding of Your truths and will for their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

Peaceful Sleep

“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

The human body’s need for sleep has always amazed me. God has designed us to literally “turn off” like a machine for eight hours or more each night. Science tells us sleep is something our bodies need to do. It is not an option. During our sleeping hours, some parts of the brain actually increase their activity dramatically, and certain hormones are produced by many of the body’s major organs and regulatory systems that continue to work.

Unfortunately, as a young homeschooling mom, I was missing out on my much needed sleep. I struggled with daily worries and anxious thoughts like “Will my children turn out okay if I homeschool? How can I teach a subject I don’t even know? How will we pay the bills if I homeschool?” Household chores were also keeping me up late into the night, and I was exhausted as I tried to do too much.

Then one night, I read a promise God seemed to write just to me: “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep” Psalm 127:2. What an eye-opener! God only had so much for me to do each day, and what was left undone was not important. All He asked of me was to pray for wisdom to accomplish His perfect will each day. His provision to meet my unfinished tasks would come by sending extra help, inspiring new ways to organize, or miraculously providing whatever I needed.

After that day, my life changed. I was able to lay my head on my pillow each night and not worry about the basket of laundry waiting to be folded or the unfinished lesson plans for tomorrow’s schoolwork.

When was the last time you had a good night’s sleep? Do you struggle with trying to do more than God intended? Bringing your homeschooling worries to the Lord means trusting Him for wisdom and provision for all your needs. Will you rest in Him tonight and experience the peaceful sleep He intended? “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself” (Matthew 6:34a).

Father, forgive me for not getting the rest I need. Help me to trust You with homeschooling my children, so we accomplish what needs to be done each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

Following Traditions

“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Colossians 2:8

I hate to admit it, but the first years I homeschooled, I tried to make our homeschooling a carbon copy of what I experienced in traditional school. Following the same regimented routine I remembered, I attempted to convert our home and teach my children with standards and techniques meant for a classroom of twenty-five children. Thankfully, God helped me to discover a more robust way to teach our school lessons, and my children became happier in their studies.

Following the traditions he had learned, the Apostle Paul also had to change his thinking toward the new believers of the early church. As a devout Hebrew and learned scholar of the law, he saw Christians as a threat to the foundations of his faith. Believing he was preserving the true worship of God, Paul zealously pursued these new believers to eradicate them. Hundreds of men, women, and children died as a result of his actions until he saw the light and encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus. Years later, Paul confessed his mistake in 1 Timothy 1:12-13 when he said, “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.”

What about you? Is your faith in Jesus Christ based simply on following the empty traditions you learned as a child, or do you truly know the One who uniquely created you? Jesus loves you and wants to have an intimate, dynamic relationship, so you can experience not only forgiveness of sin, but also the abundant life He has promised John 10:10. Why not ask the Holy Spirit to touch your heart today, and let Him show you a whole new way to love the Lord?

Father, forgive me for coming to You with empty acts of worship. Take my life and use me for Your glory. Teach me from Your Word and guide me with the Holy Spirit that I might serve You with a heart that is passionate and alive. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Letting Go

It happened today. I knew it was going to come someday, but I wasn’t quite ready. My five-year-old son and I were walking back from the barn after doing the evening chores. As we headed toward the house, I felt my hand reach for his to walk back together. In just that instant, my son’s hand pulled away instead, and I knew. I knew he was growing up and letting go.

As homeschool parents, we have even a greater temptation to hang on to our children when they begin to let go. Instead of looking for opportunities to launch our children into the world, our loving and protective nature wants to shelter them from all the hurts and injustices that will come their way. Instead of holding on so tightly, we must let go and allow them to place their hand into the hand of God. Psalm 37:24 says, “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.”

Are you struggling with letting go? Maybe you feel like Mary, the mother of Jesus, when after she had spent three days looking for her lost twelve-year-old son, she heard Him say, “How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business” (Luke 2:41-51)? You can trust God to take care of your child, even when you are not there to hold his hand. God knows his needs and will help your child just like He has done for you. “But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my God. My times are in thy hand” Psalm 31:14-15a

God, help me to place my child’s future in Your hands. Remind me of all You have done for me, so I may believe in Your loving care for him. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Cup of Water

“Why would you want to stay at home with your kids? Are you NUTS?” Have you ever heard these questions when you told someone you decided to homeschool your children? Most homeschooling parents have at one time or another. We are a different breed who receive little or no recognition from the world for our efforts. Expecting applause or appreciation for teaching our own children are dreams we have long since given up, along with paychecks and promotions. So how does a homeschooling parent cope with the lack of support and affirmation he needs to continue educating his children at home?

God’s Word gives us the answer in Matthew 10:42: “And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.” Although the world does not value a homeschooling parent, God says that even giving a drink to a thirsty child has a reward. How much more for us parents who have chosen to sacrifice our dreams for our children’s future?

Knowing that our heavenly Father sees and cares is enough to encourage us to remain faithful. Even though no one else understands, we can choose to respond to His promise: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24). Let the Lord’s love be enough for you today as you start another year of homeschooling. Someday you will receive a full reward for all you have done. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time” 1 Peter 5:6

Father, forgive me when I feel sorry for myself or complain that no one appreciates me. I know You love me and value my obedience in homeschooling our children. Help me remain faithful and humble to give You the glory in all that we do. In Your Son’s name. Amen.

Starting Over

“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” Hebrews 13:8

Almost three years ago, I watched as my youngest son left for college. He was the last of four children, and my homeschooling years had come to a close, or so I thought. The heartbreak I felt in the symbolic finality of his saying good-bye was immense. Sure, I would see my adult children and share wonderful moments together in the future, but our family would never be the same. Added to my overwhelming feeling of loss was the apprehension of a fifty-plus retired homeschooling parent’s future. “What now?” was the question that continued to reverberate in my mind.

I didn’t have to wait long for God’s answer to my question. Moving back to my hometown to care for my aging mother, God took me to a whole new homeschooling experience. Miraculously, He orchestrated an employment opportunity where I could write about the lessons I learned from Him during our homeschooling years. Here I am today, writing to you and praying that my words will help you hold fast through the hard times to discover your own homeschooling blessings. What an opportunity—God is so good! Each day I feel like I’m starting over as He takes me back through the memory banks of my mind to recall moments of success and failure. I see the faces of my children throughout our homeschooling years and remember my past to give you a hope and a vision for your future.

Amazingly, I also still fight many of the same spiritual battles I faced as a young
homeschooling parent: battles of laziness, procrastination, worry, doubt, and pride. Even at my age, God continues to mold me into the likeness of His Son, and I claim the Apostle Paul’s words, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). Most of all, I’ve come to realize that no matter if you’re a brand new homeschooling parent at the age of twenty-six or an old-time retiree, Jesus is the same wonderful, loving protector and provider “Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God” 2 Corinthians 1:4

Lord, thank You for the incredible adventure of homeschooling and giving me the strength to see the end rewards and blessings. Please encourage those who are homeschooling today to remain faithful so they too may reap the fruit of their years of sacrifice and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

One Day at a Time

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” 1 Corinthians 15:58

As a homeschooling parent, do you ever wake up in the morning and want to run away and hide from your responsibilities? Last night’s dishes, last week’s laundry, and yesterday’s school work all clamor for your attention. Your baby’s cry reminds you of yet another need, and your young toddlers seek your affection and time for play. On top of that, your church is having difficulty finding help with Sunday school and the nursery, and you know you should offer your assistance. Exhausted before the day has even begun, you throw the covers back over your head and think, “Why would God give me all this responsibility? Doesn’t He know I can’t take care of everything? Where can I go to get away from all of this work?”

When the pressure of obeying God’s call seems too much, it’s tempting to look for the easy way out. Just ask Jonah. God had given him the task of prophesying to the wicked city of Nineveh, but Jonah decided it was too big a responsibility. Hopping a boat to Joppa, Jonah worked just as hard at running away and hiding from God’s call as he would have worked if he obeyed. Fortunately, God gave this reluctant prophet another chance to accept the job He had given. After being thrown overboard and spending three days in the belly of a big fish, Jonah decided that being a preacher wasn’t that bad, even if it was to a wicked city like Nineveh.

If the responsibility of facing another year of homeschooling is causing you to run and hide, be encouraged. Although you can’t see the way through the work right now, the Lord promises to uphold you with His wisdom and strength when you need them (Isaiah 41:10). As you obediently follow His will in homeschooling today, He continues to guide you with the next step tomorrow. Step by step, day by day, you will get through the work and accomplish all He has planned for your homeschooling family. “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye” Psalm 32:8

Heavenly Father, the responsibility of homeschooling is weighing me down. Please give me the courage I need to face the new year, and show me how to lead the precious children You’ve given me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Writing on the Wall

My daughter’s feet pounded on every step as she went up to her room. I should have known it was going to be “one of those days” when I saw the mood she was in the very moment she woke up. Everything had been a test—eating breakfast, getting dressed, school work. “Why can’t kids just do as they are told?” I thought to myself.

Ephesians 6:4 states, “And, ye fathers [and mothers], provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Even though I knew this verse to be true, I went into a private pity party instead. Wouldn’t my life be easier if I sent my daughter to public school and avoided all these confrontations? I could be a mom who stayed at home and did her nails instead of a mom who checked schoolwork in the bathroom, gave spelling tests while cooking supper, and folded piles of laundry at midnight. Why was I the bad guy here?

Suddenly, the quietness in my daughter’s bedroom shattered my thoughts. I decided to go upstairs and see what was happening and talk to my daughter about her behavior. Expecting her to be on the bed crying in repentance, what I found was quite the opposite. As I opened the door, there was a mural in black crayon drawn across the yellow-flowered wall paper in her room. The anger and frustration I had used in disciplining my daughter moments ago was now communicated in her scribbles and marks before me. I knew I had pushed her too far. I saw the writing on the wall.

I wasn’t quite sure who was being disciplined that day. Certainly, my actions had been far from righteous when I had sent my daughter to her room in anger. Truly, the greater lesson had been learned by me. My anger was not the tool to be used in disciplining my children.

What about you? Do you intimidate your children with your size and “authority?” Stop and think: “For the wrath of [Mom] worketh not the righteousness of God” James 1:20

Holy Father, forgive me when I discipline my children in the flesh instead of according to Your Word. Thank You for Your mercy in my mistakes and help me show that same mercy to my children as we homeschool each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

Nearsighted Homeschooling

"A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit" Proverbs 29:23

As I drove home from our back-to-school shopping spree, I felt confident that I had finally purchased everything we needed for a successful school year. My schoolroom was ready, the curriculum had been ordered, and now these additional school supplies would complete my preparations for starting our year off right. Smiling smugly to myself, I thought I had everything under control.

and brought it to my children's attention. Frustrated, my oldest daughter kept peering into the sky, but she couldn't locate the bird at which we were pointing. Stopping the car, I asked her to read the words on the sign ahead, but she couldn't see them. Slowly, I drove closer and closer until she could finally make out the letters. What a revelation of my foolishness! "I sure had everything under control," I thought to myself. "My daughter was nearsighted, and I hadn't even realized it until just now!"

Many Christians also have a tendency to be nearsighted when life is going well. Living in the success of "now," we think our current blessings are the result of our own hands. Like the Old Testament nation of Israel, we fail to acknowledge God's hand of divine intervention in our lives. Unfortunately, many times we must experience painful or humbling reminders in order to correct our vision and see the true picture. God is in control, and we are not!

If you're starting your new school year depending on your own abilities, be careful. Only the Lord can show you those things that will make your homeschooling truly successful. As you depend on the Holy Spirit, you will not only discover wisdom to teach, but you'll also have your eyes opened to see all that God desires for your family. "Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God" Psalm 123:1-2a

Lord, forgive me for my foolish pride that fails to acknowledge You as Lord. Open my eyes to see Your plans for our family this homeschool year and teach me to constantly depend on You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Love's Compassion

“That the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy” James 5:11b

Parents who teach their children at home have a tendency to sacrifice the fruit of gentleness on the altar of homeschooling. Ever the exacting teachers, we sometimes forget our role as merciful comforters when educating our children. My foolish insensitivity to my children’s needs was revealed one day when my daughter came running into the house. Whimpering, she cried out, “Mom, an ant bit me!”

Knowing her aversion to insects and assuming she was trying to avoid her schoolwork, I
ignored the tears and replied, “Oh my, it was just a little ant. It couldn’t have hurt that badly!” As unfeeling as a robot, I hugged her quickly, told her to stop crying, and sent her on her way to finish her studies.

Several days later, I reaped the humbling consequences for my apathy to my daughter’s pleas. Sitting in the sandbox near our new home, I warmed my toes in the sand and watched as my children built towering castles. Suddenly, a sharp pain in my foot made me yell, “Ouch!” I was sure I had been stung by a bee or a wasp, but when I looked down, I only saw an ant. What I didn’t know, however, was that this was no ordinary ant. Native to the area, it was a red harvester ant whose bite was as painful as any bee sting. Showing the true compassion I should have shown her, my young daughter came to me with a genuine hug and said, “It’s okay, Mommy, I’ll help you!”

Have you become so busy or dogmatic in your homeschooling routine that you fail to show compassionate love? Staying on task and accomplishing educational goals is never more important than expressing gentle, heartfelt concern to your children. Whether it’s an emotional hurt on the inside or a painful wound outside, let love’s compassion be your guide in all your actions. “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young” Isaiah 40:11

Father, your tender love encourages me so much each day. Please keep my heart soft, so I can express that same love and teach the most important lesson my children can learn—compassion. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

If you're a homeschool mom, you've probably experienced the feeling of being unappreciated by the world, right? Imagine then, what your husband must feel like as he quietly contributes to your family's homeschooling day. Even though you get some credit for doing the majority of teaching, he usually receives no recognition at all. He remains unnoticed by both friends and family (sometimes his own). Perhaps it is time to consider some of the ways he faithfully supports your children's educational success, such as the following:

Have your children show appreciation to their father. Why not give him the praise that's due and thank him for all his sacrificial acts of service and love with a thoughtful card or gift? Make this scripture true in his life: As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them. Psalm 127:4-5a

Lord, forgive me for taking my husband for granted and not acknowledging his homeschooling efforts as I should. Thank You for the countless hours of love and support he provides every day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Focused Homeschooling

"Pray without ceasing" 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Distractions. Every day you face them as a homeschooling parent. Although some may seem good in themselves, they can steal time from your family and destroy your homeschooling schedule. Learning to recognize each interruption as either a divine rescheduling or an evil diversion takes discernment that only comes from the Holy Spirit. Whether it's a long phone call from your mother or sister, or an invitation to enjoy an impromptu outing with another homeschooling family, you must prayerfully consider what daily activities are God's best for your family.

Going with the flow and failing to pray for guidance caused many problems for people in the Bible, too. Even Joshua, God's chosen leader after Moses' death, was distracted and made the mistake of believing the Gibeonites. After seeing the destruction of Jericho and fearing for their lives, the Gibeonites sent representatives disguised as travelers from a distant land to make peace with Joshua. Instead of coming before the Lord in prayer to verify their story, Joshua made a covenant with them, not knowing they were his neighboring enemies (Joshua 9:14-15). Held to his oath, Joshua was forced to let them live. He made them "hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation, and for the altar of the LORD" (vs. 27).

Have you learned how to discern God's will for your homeschooling day? Only as you walk in the power of the Holy Spirit will you be able to know the difference between a dangerous detour and God's window of opportunity. Taking the time to pray for wisdom each morning and throughout the day will save your homeschooling from disaster. "Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God" Proverbs 2:3-5

Father, only You know what's best for our homeschooling today. As we face distractions, please help me to discern what is Your perfect will for us and to adjust our homeschooling schedule accordingly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
© 2009 Alpha Omega Publications

The Joy of Children

"As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them" Psalm 127:4-5a

Call me crazy, but I just love kids. Therefore, making the decision to homeschool our four children wasn't difficult — it was simply a result that grew out of love. What did seem crazy, however, were the countless, negative remarks I received from people who felt bogged down by the responsibilities of parenting. Such comments like, "Why in the world would you want to stay home with your kids?" or "I can hardly wait until they're ready for school, so I can enjoy my life again," seemed as crazy to me as my homeschooling did to them. In response I thought, "Why wouldn't you want to spend time with the people you love most?"

Treasuring the blessings of children is a foreign concept to most. Although many couples love and enjoy their children, there are also couples who view children as an inconvenience. Wanting to "get ahead in the world," they only have time to enjoy their children in small doses and pass off the major responsibility for their children's care, education, and entertainment to others. However, the Lord's view on children is different. God calls them blessings and "rewards" (Psalm 127:3). And they are! Through the eyes of children, you appreciate the wonder of God's world and maintain a heart that is soft and compassionate. Children also teach you to forgive easily, love unselfishly, and enjoy the blessings of the moment.

How are you feeling about your children today? Do you view each of them as a blessing, even in the toughest times? Admittedly, homeschooling your children is a huge responsibility that requires a great deal of self-sacrifice. However, even in the worst of your homeschooling moments, the blessings they bring far outweigh any burden involved. Ask any parent who's been homeschooling more than a few years, and they'll tell you the same story — their children are their greatest treasures. What about yours?

Father, Forgive me when I take the world's view toward my children. Just as You treasure me as Your precious child, humble my heart and teach me to love my own children, too. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Daily Chores

What chores have you delegated to your children to keep the homeschooling wheels turning in your family? To save electricity and money, my youngest daughter's chore was hanging up the clothes to dry. Each morning after breakfast, she either hung the clothes outside in the fresh summer air or inside on the drying rack during the winter months. With six people in our family, this task grew into a time-consuming chore. Early on, she discovered that no amount of complaining or procrastinating would relieve her of the responsibility. Learning to face the task with resolve and determination, she acquired a work ethic that has since served her well in the work place.

In living the Christian life, you too may face "chores" God has given you to do. Serving on church committees, hosting backyard Bible clubs, and teaching Sunday school can seem like added burdens to an already full homeschooling schedule. Although the extra discipline required to minister to others may seem daunting at the time, you'll discover it develops a Christ-like character that glorifies the Lord.

What about you? Are you complaining about the chores God has given you to do or have you learned to submit to the lesson of servanthood? Make no mistake, God will keep leading you back to what He last asked you to do until you say, "Yes, Lord. Here I am, send me." Embrace the responsibility and see the task for what it is-an opportunity to glorify your Lord and bless others. Is there anything better you could be doing with your life? "Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many" Matthew 20:28.

Lord, forgive me for complaining and shirking the responsibilities You've given to me. Open my eyes to see the joys of blessing others with Your love and let me serve You today with a totally devoted heart. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.

Early Morning Singers

"O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth" Psalm 96:1

Their greeting surprised me that morning. As the sun rose, their warbling song filtered through the window and lifted my spirit with the hope of spring. My patience had been running thin for the past several weeks, and God knew I needed a boost to finish our homeschooling year. With their joyful melodies ministering to my soul, I listened in amazement and smiled as I watched them sing. Their tiny bodies shook and resonated with sound, appearing as if they used their entire being. "Amazing," I thought to myself. "These little wrens do a better job of praising the Lord than I do."

Of all God's creation, humans seem to have the hardest time consistently praising God. Homeschoolers grow tired near the end of the school year and forget God is in control. With impatient hearts and complaining spirits, we trudge on in our own effort as we push to the final homeschooling days before summer. Instead of singing praises to God for the homeschooling joys He has given, we forget our blessings and simply focus on getting through our schoolwork. Satan smiles as he realizes he has succeeded in robbing us of our song.

How about you? Has it been awhile since God heard a song of praise from your lips? If you're experiencing difficulty in finding joy during these last days of homeschooling, you would do well to learn the lesson of praising the Lord from God's little wren. "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him" Psalms 28:7.

Lord, forgive me for failing to praise and thank You for Your many blessings. Put a new song in my heart today and let me rejoice in the goodness of Your love. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it." Matthew 16:25

Sometimes learning a new skill and information requires a painstaking effort. Such was the case when my five-year-old son saw the new phonics chart hanging on the schoolroom wall. Looking at all the phonics rules he had to learn and memorize, my son looked at me with wide eyes and said, "Mommy, there's too many. Can't we skip some and just do the first ones?"

"No, honey," I replied. "Each one is important in helping you become a better reader. Just think, after you learn them all, you'll be able to read really hard books."

Looking at me skeptically, he answered, "Can I just learn to read easy books, Mom?"

Whether you're learning to become a better reader or a follower of Jesus Christ, you must count the cost and recognize the sacrifices involved. In Matthew 26:6-13, Jesus rebuked His disciples for their indignation toward a woman's sacrificial act of love. Instead, Jesus commended her for bringing a vial of very costly perfume and pouring it on his head, even though the poor would have benefited from its value. Giving such an expensive gift probably cost this woman everything, but what a perfect picture for us! There is a great cost involved in becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ.

What has it cost you to homeschool your children? Are you thinking now that the price is too high? Like the honor given to the woman for her costly gift (Matthew 26:13) or the reward promised for being Christ's disciple (Luke 18:29-30), God will honor your faithful homeschooling sacrifice of time, energy, and money. Will you hold fast to what God has shown you to be true? "So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33).

Lord, convict me of my need to give back all that I am to You. Guide me as I homeschool today and remind me that this sacrifice is nothing compared to Yours when You died on the cross for me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people" Proverbs 14:34

Every spring after the snow thawed in the ditches near our home, the ugliness of winter's past sins would be revealed. An endless disarray of empty glass liquor bottles and aluminum beer cans lined both sides of our country road for more than a mile. Looking at the mess, my young son shook his head in disgust. "Mom," he said. "Why do they have to throw their garbage in our ditch?"

Understanding his displeasure, I replied, "I don't know, but can you imagine the mess their lives are in if what they've left behind looks like this!"

The Bible doesn't pull any punches when it reveals God's attitude towards sin's ugliness. The Scriptures say sin is an abomination to the Lord (Proverbs 6:16) and that He hates those who do iniquity (Psalm 5:5). No matter if the sin is great or small in our mind, we suffer when we choose to disobey God. Our sinful actions and choices trash not only our lives, but also the lives of everyone they touch.

As a Christian homeschooling parent, do you take your sinful failings seriously? Proverbs 14:9 says, "Fools make a mock at sin." Each time you choose to lose your patience, make unloving remarks, or fail to discipline your children, you leave a mess in your own family, as well as the world. Left unchecked, sin's filthy effect will split your family apart and give the world cause to look on homeschoolers and Christians with disgust. Will you start picking up the mess by coming before the Lord today and seeking His cleansing from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9)?

Father, forgive me for not hating sin like You do. Help me to deal with those seemingly "little" sins that make my life ugly and ruin Your best in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little" Isaiah 28:9-10

I'm not sure what I expected from my children when we first started homeschooling. I guess I thought they would be accomplished mathematicians and readers by the time they were in second grade. As we continued schooling each year, however, I realized that children grow intellectually the same way they grow physically-a little bit at a time. Even though I felt like we weren't accomplishing much each day, every new phonics rule, spelling word, grammar rule, or math fact was actually building upon itself and laying a foundation that would lead to their educational success.

Spiritual maturity is a step-by-step growing process as well. Too many times we look at older, more mature saints and wish we had their walk with God. However, we fail to see the years of lessons (sometimes painful lessons) that brought them to their point of maturity. Each lesson learned in faith, prayer, and Scriptural truths builds upon the last to produce a shining, godly character.

What about your spiritual life? Does it seem like there are so many lessons to learn before you become a person of faith? Maybe you even find yourself relearning the same lessons like patience, a pure thought life, or gratefulness over and over again. God is the master builder of all things (Hebrews 3:4), and He is setting the bricks of your faith one at a time. Trust Him and you'll become a shining example of His love to your homeschooling family and to the world. "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6).

Lord, thank You for each lesson You've used to teach me more about You. Increase my faith and keep teaching me that my life might glorify You. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

I stood looking at the photographs pasted on the outside edge of my daughter's bedroom mirror. What had started as a few pictures of a look-alike movie star had now turned into a collage of movie-star photographs that left only one small space for her reflection in the middle of the mirror. I sighed as my heart cringed.

Apparently, the homeschooling curriculum I had used to teach my daughter her value in God's eyes wasn't working. Satan's lies were convincing my daughter to identify herself with the world's definition of beauty. I cried as I thought of the depression she seemed to display each morning. "No wonder," I said to myself. "Who could compare to each of these air-brushed beauties?" How could I teach her that Proverbs 31:30 was true. "Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."

If there ever was a beauty in the Old Testament, Esther was it! Chosen from the most beautiful women in Persia to be the wife of King Ahasuerus, the meaning of her name came true: she was a "star." Although she wasn't in a major motion picture, God cast her for a part that would save the entire nation of Jews. The true beauty of her character, which lay in her faithfulness to Jehovah God and His people, shone when she chose to listen to God instead of her fears and claimed, "If I perish, I perish"(Esther 4:16).

Someday I look forward to meeting this beautiful woman in heaven, for it was her story that turned my daughter's life around. Praise God for the wisdom to teach our children the truth and for the mighty power of His Holy Word that is tested and sure, never returning void. "So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it" (Isaiah 55:11).

Jesus, make my heart sensitive to my children's needs and lead me as I teach them Your truths. The world's ways seem so much stronger at times, and it is only by Your hand that I know what to do. Thank you, Jesus, for being the most beautiful thing in our lives. In Your precious name, Amen.

The Dangers of Disrespect

"Honor thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee". Deuteronomy 5:16a

Disrespectful actions of children, no matter their age, are abhorred by God, and there's no place that's worse to see the disrespectful actions of children than in a homeschooling family. This serious offense robs parents of their authority to teach and destroys the family unit. Repeatedly, God warns children to honor their parents with loving hearts of obedience (Exodus 20:12, Ephesians 6:2). Mouthy and sarcastic children who demean or belittle their parent's leadership and decision making are clearly on a path to destruction.

King David's son, Absalom, is one such example in the Bible. The tragic story of this young man's disrespect toward his father is recorded in 2 Samuel 15-18. Absalom not only disrespected his father by defying him, but he also attempted to usurp David's reign as king. Secretly, he won the hearts of the people and eventually drove David from Jerusalem in fear of his life. The total defiance of Absalom toward his father culminated in the public act of sexually violating his father's wives on a roof top. Fortunately, King David had enough loyal followers to stop his foolish son, but at the cost of his son's life.

What about your children? Do they know the boundaries between respectfully disagreeing and disrespect? Because homeschooling families interact together 24/7, we have even more opportunity to let this problem begin in our relationships. As parents, God wants us to deal with this form of rebellion in our children as soon as it arises. After all, if children cannot learn to respect their parents, chances are they will also have difficulty respecting the Lord.

Father, sometimes it seems easier to look the other way or laugh it off when my children fail to respect me. Help me to realize the importance You place on correcting this problem when my children challenge me in ways that are inappropriate. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Prove It!

Finding all the necessary documentation for my daughter's admission to college was a nightmare. Not only did we need two forms of identification, proof of health insurance, long-lost medical immunization records, GED, and ACT scores, but now we also needed an "official" high school transcript. Thankfully, I had saved her grades during the past four years, and had prepared a "transcript" in the event we needed it. Sorting through my files on the computer to find the transcript, I shook my head and thought, "Why do I still need to prove my daughter's high school grades when she received such great ACT scores?"

God is also no stranger to providing proofs to an unbelieving world. Some people wrestle with believing God exists, even though creation has shown He does exist (Romans 1:19-20). Others, like the people in Christ's day, refuse to believe unless they see the proof of "signs and wonders" (Matthew 12:38-39 and John 4:48). Then, there are those who think they no longer need any proof of God at all because they have simply declared, "God is dead."

But unbelievers are not the only people who foolishly place a burden of proof on the Lord. Sometimes we Christians demand proof. Our fragile faith causes us to also ask God for "signs and wonders" before we will step out and do what He clearly commands in the Scriptures. Repeatedly, we miss the blessings of being used because we are still waiting for some additional sign from God. God must shake His head in heaven and think, "I've given them the truth of my Holy Word, the example of my Son, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. What other proof do they need to obey me?"

Have you been asking the Lord for more proof before you will serve Him (Deuteronomy 6:16)? Dear child of God, the burden of proof doesn't lie with God, it lies with you. God uses those who are willing to believe and obey Him. Won't you prove you are not only a hearer of the Word, but also a doer? "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves". James 1:22

Lord, forgive me for doubting Your provision to do all that You ask. Increase my faith and help me follow You each day in the truths You teach through Your Word. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Homeschool Bed and Breakfast

"Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine". John 21:12

One of my greatest pleasures as a homeschooling mother was giving my children a hot breakfast, along with a warm "good morning" each day. My sense of nurturing was satisfied as I watched sleepy-eyed yawns turn into energetic smiles. Cornbread, pancakes, waffles, omelets, French toast, apple muffins, and the like provided the necessary "brain power" for them to learn their homeschooling lessons. But just as important as the nourishing food, was the encouragement and love expressed when the food was served with a hug and a kiss.

Jesus knew all about the encouragement that comes from a good, hot breakfast. In one of His appearances after His resurrection, he had a great breakfast cooking for the disciples after their long, hard night of failed fishing. In the twilight, the disciples didn't recognize Jesus at first when He asked about their catch. But when Christ performed a miracle and filled their empty net, John realized it was Jesus. How wonderful they must have felt to see their Lord again as they shared a morning meal together!

Someday, the Lord will be serving another important meal. Christ is coming back for everyone who has trusted in Him as Lord and Savior, and we will share in His kingdom forever. "And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb" (Revelation 19:9). I can only imagine the joy of fellowshipping with my Lord every morning and throughout eternity with the warmth of His love. What about you? Is your name on the invitation list? "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me". Revelation 3:20

Jesus, how I long for the day of Your return! What indescribable joy there will be when I see You face to face! Use me to lead my children to You, so together, we can experience Your love forever at Your marriage supper. In Your holy, loving name, Amen.

Disciplines

"It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes" (Psalm 119:71).

Mopping the kitchen floor and washing dishes have always been my two least favorite jobs. Because of the obvious health hazard and the fact we needed to reuse them, I daily set my mind to rid the kitchen counters of the accumulated piles of dishes. However, procrastination would set in when the time came to mop the kitchen floor, especially during the snowy days of winter. I justified my laziness with the demands of homeschooling and counteracted with vacuuming daily and passing the "take your shoes off at the door" law. Unfortunately, even this new rule failed to eliminate the need for a daily, if not semi-daily mopping of footprints and sticky patches from spilled food. If the teaching role had been reversed and my young children had graded me on this task, I definitely would have received an "F."

My laziness and procrastination affected other areas of my life as well. Scripture memory was incorporated into my children's Bible curriculum, but disciplining myself to "hide God's Word in my heart" was an area in which I was sorely lacking. Again, I justified myself by saying, "I make time for daily prayer, Bible study, and devotions; I can't do everything as a homeschooling mom, there isn't time!" But God didn't simply give me an "F" in Scripture memorization and leave me alone. He challenged me with His truth in Psalm 119:99-104 and led me to a topical memory system of memorizing His Word. I soon discovered the blessing of really knowing God's Word and its power to change my life and others. In fact, He even showed me how to memorize Bible verses easily-by combining mopping and Scripture memory at the same time!

When was the last time you've memorized a new Bible verse? You'll never start if you don't make a lesson plan for yourself. Why not find an accountability partner (maybe your own child) to memorize Scriptures with and discover the strength of God's Word in your heart and mind? "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).

Lord, please forgive my laziness in handling Your Word. Teach me again to love Your Word and to meditate on its truths. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Bigger Picture

The year was 1981, and for two weeks I had been struggling with an important writing assignment. Enrolling my children into a homeschool satellite program to escape truancy charges from the public school was dependent on this "statement of homeschooling faith." Although I was frustrated with how much time and effort preparing this statement required, this document became my doctrinal guideline for homeschooling for the next twenty-five years. Frequently, I referred back to my God-given declarations contained in its pages and reminded myself why we were teaching our children at home.

The Bible contains many examples of individuals who verbalized or wrote their convictions down to solidify their commitments. Jacob made a verbal covenant with Laban by setting up a stone altar in Genesis 31:44-45. Joshua set up a memorial of stones from the Jordan River to serve as a testimonial of God's provision to future generations (Joshua 4). Greatest of all, God set His Word literally in stone for Moses and the nation of Israel when He carved the Ten Commandments into two tablets (Exodus 24:12).

Do you know why you are homeschooling? Really? Isn't there a bigger purpose than just simply getting your children out of public school for academic or safety reasons? Have you formulated God's purpose for your homeschooling, so you are not tossed around by each obstacle that comes your way? Perhaps writing a declaration of homeschooling might also help you bring all your thoughts together into one single-purpose statement. Maybe the beginning of our family's statement might help you get started-"As Bible-believing Christians, we are convicted that the ultimate responsibility for our children's education is ours, the parents" (Deuteronomy 6:5-7).

Father, whenever we do Your will, we face opposition from Satan. Help me to see clearly the purpose You have for our family's homeschooling, and guide me to preserve that message for our strength in the days ahead. In Jesus' name, Amen.

It's Too Hard

"Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?" Jeremiah 32:27

Motivating our homeschooled children to learn can seem like a daunting task. Many times we hear them say, "It's too hard," and we are tempted to put off teaching difficult lessons. Whether you are attempting to teach your child how to research material for a term paper or the proper steps for long division, step back and teach in smaller increments to keep him on track. Help your child learn the lesson one step at a time, and this will bring him more success in learning the information.

Joshua had a hard task facing him when he and the nation of Israel finally crossed into the Promised Land God had given them. They had to drive out the nations that were already living there-a very hard task and a very large task, especially since some of the people were giants! City by city and tribe by tribe, God told Joshua what to do, and He gave the people victory in conquering the land.

Sometimes the problems homeschool parents face seem larger than life, too. We tell God, "It's too hard!" and are tempted to give up. Maybe you are faced with teaching your child high school subjects or you have a special needs child who requires extra attention. Ask God to help you break down the problem into smaller parts and show you the solutions you need to find success. You don't have the wisdom to know how to work things out, but God does. He will help you teach those difficult high school subjects or your special needs child. Don't despair-nothing is too difficult for God!

Lord, you are a great and mighty God. I know that teaching our children is Your will. Please show me how to solve the giant problems that have come because we chose to homeschool. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Great Expectations

Countless times during the day, homeschooling parents are approached by their children with a request. Expectantly, they come for advice, for help with a problem, or for words of encouragement and love. The thought that you might not have the answer, the time, or the ability to help never crosses their minds. Most homeschool parents gladly respond by doing all they can to meet these "great expectations."

If you are a child of the King, you also have the same ability to come before your heavenly Father with your requests. Hebrews 4:16 tells us, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Unlike the limitations you face when meeting your child's request, Jesus has the ability to give you everything you need and waits to show you the "exceeding riches of His grace" (Ephesians 2:7). He never gets tired when you ask Him countless questions or even the same question over and over. Christ even loves you with an "everlasting love" and seeks to draw you unto Himself (Jeremiah 31:3b).

Is there a question on your mind that you would like to talk about with Jesus? Are you wondering how to pay your bills on one income, how to find time during the day for yourself, or how to seek forgiveness from your children for losing your patience? Because Christ shed His blood on the cross, you can come "boldly" before God's throne of grace. Come now. You don't even have to wait your turn! God is capable of multi-tasking. He can meet more than one need at a time. All you have to do is come, ask, and receive. "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him" (1 John 5:14-15).

Lord, thank You for being such a great God who can meet all my needs. I rejoice that I can come to You each day and find the help, advice, love, and encouragement I need to homeschool. I worship You today! In Jesus' name, Amen.

Showing Off

"A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit" (Proverbs 29:23).

My son and daughter had finished their schoolwork early and were heading out the door to go on a long bike ride for the remainder of the afternoon. I was looking forward to the additional free time from our homeschooling day to work in my flower garden. I waved and smiled as they left the yard and said, "Have a nice time." Little did I know, the plans for the afternoon were soon to change.

I watched as my son decided to show his sister that he could ride a bike without using his hands. Showing off, he continued riding until he reached a patch of loose gravel on our road. In an instant, he was airborne like some cartoon character and landed with a thud in the middle of the road. Unfortunately, he didn't bounce back. I ran to pick up his bleeding body and checked for broken bones.

Showing off usually leads to some type of catastrophe. King Hezekiah made such a mistake when he decided to show his possessions to the king of Babylon (2 Kings 20:12-13). Isaiah the prophet rebuked him for being so foolish and prophesied, "Behold, the days come, that all that is in thine house, and that which thy fathers have laid up in store unto this day, shall be carried into Babylon: nothing shall be left, saith the LORD" (vs.17). The king of Babylon knew a good thing when he saw it. He conquered Jerusalem many years later and carried away every one of those treasures.

Do you struggle with wanting to impress others? Do you flaunt your possessions or achievements so other people will think highly of you? Do you doubt your worth in the Lord's eyes, so much that you puff yourself up to find value? Don't be like a child and show off. Humble yourself before you are humiliated by your actions. God's Word says, "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time" (1 Peter 5:5-6).

Lord, forgive me for robbing You of Your glory when I show off in front of others. Everything I have and am is because of You. May You receive all glory and praise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

What do you have to be thankful for as a homeschooling parent? Have you stopped to think about it recently? Amazingly, you’ve done nothing special to deserve God’s goodness and love, but He chooses to bless you anyway. Uniquely packaged, these divine blessings come through special acts of kindness by a homeschooling friend, an encouraging love note from a child or family member, an unexpected, homemade gift crafted by little hands, a beautiful sunrise or sunset made “just for you,” a soft sofa after a long day of teaching, or your child’s “Thanks, that was great!” after eating the evening meal.

Unfortunately, so many of these simple blessings we receive each day from God’s hand go unnoticed, unacknowledged, and unappreciated. Lost under piles of housework and homeschooling “to dos,” we can only see the bigger problems and things we don’t have. Not until tragedy strikes and our world falls apart do we slow down, reflect, and realize how wonderful life’s everyday blessings can be. So, why is it that we continually fall from an attitude of gratitude to one of ungratefulness or complaining?

Perhaps it’s because we’re much like the people of Israel in the Old Testament. When the grapes were on the vine and the goats were fat in the fields, they forgot the Lord who saved them from Egypt’s bondage and slavery. Developing a self-sufficient mentality, they repeatedly forgot God until a humbling chain of events brought them back to their knees in grateful worship saying, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2).

What about your soul? Do you find it difficult to gratefully remember God’s blessings amidst all the busyness of homeschooling and homemaking? Don’t let this Thanksgiving just be about turkey, pumpkin pies, and homeschool holiday activities. Although gratitude is the most fragile of virtues, you can strengthen it by opening your eyes each day to the bounty of God’s blessings to truly “give thanks.” “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation” (Psalm 68:19)

Father God,
When I begin to count all the blessings in my life, I’m overwhelmed at Your love. Change my attitude today and help me express my gratefulness for my family, my home, and every good and perfect gift You’ve given me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

First Thanksgiving Day proclamation made by George Washington on October 3, 1789

Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness: Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3rd day of October, A.D. 1789.

- George Washington

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our newly elected president openly declared our country’s total dependence on God today?

Romans 13:1-2 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
I'll let scripture speak for itself. We must always use it as a guide regardless of how things appear. What was written so long ago by George Washington emphasizes two things. Thanksgiving and repentance. We must all practice these two things at a personal and corporate level to see God's blessing and favor...

- Theresa Wood

Sowing and Reaping

Learning to read and enjoying good literature were seeds we consciously planted into our homeschooled children. We cultivated in them a desire to read by first reading to our children when they were young. As they grew older, they mastered phonics rules and eventually became avid readers themselves.

To feed their insatiable appetites for books, the library became our second home. Books were literally hauled to and from the library each week in a large tub. The librarians dreaded our coming and going because of the time involved to process our books. However, taking advantage of this public resource enabled us to nurture a love of literature while subsidizing our homeschool curriculum expenses. Years later, I wasn't surprised when my children reaped the benefits of being good readers by getting their first part-time jobs as librarians.

The law of sowing and reaping applies to our spiritual lives, too. Whether we are children or adults, we plant seeds of righteousness that glorify the Lord (Proverbs 11:18) or seeds that will reap pain, suffering, or death (Proverbs 22:8). Many times, we make choices based on the moment, and we forget that someday there will be a harvest of our actions, now and for eternity.

What are you sowing in your life? Are you making choices that produce a harvest of righteousness, or do the seeds of sin seem to be taking over? Maybe it's time to step back and let the Holy Spirit pull out those "weeds" that have begun to choke your spiritual life. "For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting" (Galatians 6:7b-8).

Lord, help me plant those things in my life that will glorify You and weed out those things that don't. I claim Your strength again today to stop and pray before I make each decision. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Homeschool Hunger

The book I was hungry to read had been sitting on my desk for over two months. Stacked neatly in a pile with other half-read books, I wondered if I would ever get to read it. I wanted to be a successful homeschooling parent who remained teachable, but my limited time prevented me from indulging in every subject I loved. Instead, I challenged my intellect by thoroughly researching the subjects I taught my children.

There is another type of hunger, however, that homeschool parents must feed-a hunger for righteousness. We must come to the Lord expectantly each day to learn and digest what He desires to teach us from His Word. "Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name" (Psalm 86:11). Unlike other books, we cannot afford to leave our Bibles unread and stacked on our desks.

So, isn't it time to become a student again and learn something new about God and His Word? How well do you know your Bible? Have you ever read through it entirely? Do you know how to cross reference Scripture, memorize verses, use a concordance, read maps, or find the Greek and Hebrew meaning of the words used in the verses? There is so much to learn. Don't stop with what you know. Grow! "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6).

Father, there is so much I have to learn about You! Restore to me the joy of discovering what an awesome and loving God You are! Teach me something new today and help me to hunger for more and more of Your wisdom. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pouting Pains

Rebellion has many faces, and the big pout on my daughter's face was definitely one of them. With three other children in our homeschool classroom, she didn't like being the one who had to wait for help with her questions. Watching her body language, I realized there was a much bigger problem waiting to be dealt with than the one in her math lesson.

My daughter's actions brought back memories of the beginnings of my own rebellious days. What had started as simple, little pouting episodes to get my own way had turned into all-out, get-in-your-face rebellion toward my parents as a teenager. Being the last of seven children, my parents were usually too busy to put out the flames of my sinful rebellion when they erupted. Because these seemingly small pouting sessions were left unchecked, they burned a hole in my character and my life. Many years of pain from "getting my own way" passed before my heart was humbled before a mighty God.

Have you bought into the world's lie that you deserve what you want, when you want it? Dear one, don't go down that path of destruction! Although there may be joy for the moment, pain and suffering will meet you at the end. "An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him" (Proverbs 17:11). Jesus loves you too much to let your pouting spoil things. Trust Him to meet every need you have, and you'll never get burned again by the world's empty promises. "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever" (1 John 2:16-17).

Jesus, I submit my life to You again this day. Forgive me when I try to take control and fail to trust You. Help me fight off the fiery darts of the devil that tempt me to rebel against Your will. In Your name, Amen.

Signs of Christ

If your homeschooling family is like most, there are probably many symbols of your faith located in your home. We had several crosses throughout the house that the children made during art class, and our refrigerator was plastered with new Sunday school papers each week. We had the word "Jesus" made with barbed wire and hung on the wall in the kitchen. We even had a screen-saver on our computer's desktop with changing pictures and Scripture passages.

The most unique signs we had of our faith were the computer-generated Scripture plaques my son made for art class. Printed, laminated, and located in strategic places throughout our home, we had God's Word to see and memorize everywhere we went. Scripture passages were on the bathroom mirror, on the bed headboard, on the kitchen windows above the sink, and even by the speedometer in the car. These wonderful symbols of God's written promises encouraged us and proclaimed our faith to all who entered our home.

More important than the symbols we have on the outside of our lives, is the symbol and seal of the Holy Spirit that we receive on the inside when we become a child of God (Ephesians 1:13). The indwelling Holy Spirit is a reminder of the future inheritance we have in Christ (Ephesians 1:14). We see the power of God as we yield our lives to His control, and He even displays His fruit in us for others to see (Galatians 5:22-23).

How do you display your faith for others to see? What does that cross stand for on the bumper of your car, the front door of your house, or around your neck? Is it just another decoration? If you identify with the One who died upon it for your sins, let His forgiveness change your life. Become a symbol of His unconditional love for the whole world to see! "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God" (1 Corinthians 1:18).

Lord Jesus, thank You for the cross and Your willingness to suffer and die for my sins. I thank You again today for the Holy Spirit's presence in my life. Let both my home and my life symbolize Your love so others will see the way to eternal life. In Your blessed name, Amen.

Matters of the Heart

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil" (Jeremiah 29:11a).

Is there anything more agonizing to homeschooling parents than watching their child struggle when taking a test? Whenever my children went through contortions trying to remember facts hiding in their memory banks, I wanted to run to their rescue. Sometimes, I even went so far as to drop a few "hints" to help them succeed in their efforts. Surprisingly, my children perceived just the opposite about my feelings. Thinking I enjoyed using my red pen, they didn't understand the ache in my heart when I corrected their wrong answers. As their parent, I didn't want them to fail. I wanted them to triumph in their tests.

What's even more surprising is the misconception many Christians have of their Heavenly Father. Picturing God as holy and just, they forget that God is also merciful and loving. God doesn't look forward to punishing us for what we've done wrong. In fact, just the opposite is true. He wants us to succeed in our Christian walk and discover all the blessings He has waiting for us. Every day when "tests" come and we can't remember the right answers from His Word, He helps us succeed by sending encouraging "hints." Whether a godly friend reminds us of His love or the Holy Spirit gives us wisdom to discern a problem, we can rest assured that "If God be for us, who can be against us" (Romans 8:31b)?

Have you been getting a few problems wrong in the tests of your life? Take heart, dear friend in Christ. The Lord isn't waiting to condemn you (Romans 8:1). He loves you and wants to help you find victory in the power of His mighty name. "How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand" (Psalm 139:17-18a).

Lord, thank You for being a God who loves me more than I can imagine. Lift me today and remind me again of all You've given me as Your child. In the name of Your dear Son, Amen.

Give Praise When Due

"Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it" (Proverbs 3:27).

Do you think praising your homeschooled children will cause conceit and pride in their character? Since I received few compliments as a child from my stoic Dutch and German parents, I wondered if my praise would lead to an over-inflated ego in my children. I struggled with this question and searched the Scriptures for an answer until one day I read, "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do" (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

My children would probably say I was tough on them as a homeschool parent. I didn't grade on a curve, and 96% and above was considered an "A." I used the dreaded "red pen" liberally in language arts lessons and compositions, and I rarely "fudged" when playing a board game to let them win. However, even though I was tough, I learned to lavish my children with large amounts of praise. I complimented them whenever they did an excellent job on a paper or whenever they showed initiative and creativity in completing a project. I looked for ways each day to tell them how proud I was of them personally and academically. A few encouraging words made such a difference in their lives!

God created us to give praise-first to Him and then to others. He loves to hear our prayers that proclaim His goodness and our songs of highest praise. God even wants us to bring a sacrifice of praise to Him when life brings difficult times. Are you discouraged today? Is praising the Lord the last thing you feel like doing? Move past your feelings to obedience and bring the sacrifice of praise unto the Lord. God is in control of your life. Whatever the circumstances, He deserves our worship as a holy God. "O let not the oppressed return ashamed: let the poor and needy praise thy name" (Psalm 74:21).

Father, when I look at the problems in my life, I find it so difficult to praise You. Help me turn my eyes upon You now and sing glorious praise to You, my King. I worship You my great and holy God! In your Son's name, Amen.

My Incredible Journey

The story of God's people, Israel, in the Old Testament draws a striking parallel to my journey as a homeschooling parent. For years, I had been caught in the bondage of believing that public school was the only way to educate my child. Miraculously, we experienced God leading our family out of this "slavery" and through our "Red Sea" when He provided a path to teach our children through a homeschool satellite program. Chased by the Pharaoh of the school system with threats of truancy, we walked though our difficulty on dry land and watched as the waves crashed over top of those who worked so diligently to keep us from teaching our children at home.

Like Israel, we sang praises to God for His deliverance and began our journey to the Promised Land of four successfully educated children. We, too, complained about the lack of familiar food and water because finances were short. We tasted the bitter waters of Marah when we attempted to teach our children in our own strength. We slowly learned to look to our cloud by day and pillar of fire by night and felt God's protection from the heat of well-meaning, but critical family members and the cold rejection of an uninformed community.

We would have died from the serpent bites of laziness and anger, but looking to the cross saved us, as we saw God's forgiveness for each mistake. We saw parents give up, claiming that homeschooling was too hard, and we watched as their families became swallowed up again by the public school like the rebellion at Korah.

We even doubted God's presence on many occasions and set up a golden calf of making our school look exactly like the public school. But our Moses was Jesus, and each day He faithfully led us back to where we needed to go. He gave us the Ten Commandments of His Word, and we experienced His loving presence as we obeyed its truths.

Looking back on the journey, I see Jesus' loving hands lifted over our family. I praise Him for the incredible journey we experienced in teaching our children at home. Don't give up on your homeschooling journey. The Promised Land is all that God said it would be!

Father, I pray for the many homeschooling families who are on the adventure of teaching their children at home. Bless them this day and provide the same guidance You gave to us. Show them that You are mighty and able to take care of every homeschooling need. In Jesus' name, Amen.

You Can Do It

"Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it" (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

Have you been experiencing setbacks lately while homeschooling? Are your children rebelling or acting bored? Do friends continue to harass you about your decision and worry that your children will be socially inept by the time they graduate? Is all the hard work of balancing time for your spouse, your children, and yourself just too much? Are the unpaid bills or unfinished chores keeping you awake at night? Maybe God never really wanted you to homeschool in the first place? After all, if He did, things wouldn't be so hard, right?

Those are the experiences and thoughts I felt homeschooling four children. Second guessing myself, I was ready to walk away and experience the "good life" of corporate reward and fulfillment. Anything had to be better than the frustration I was going through now. But each time I determined to give up and send my children to school, a wonderful day of homeschooling blessings would encourage me again. My spiritual and homeschooling journeys became intertwined, and I learned that any success I had when teaching my children was dependent on my closeness to God's heart.

My days of looking for a way out eventually ended when God gave me my own homeschooling life verse, "Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory" (2 Timothy 2:10). I knew I could endure any homeschooling negatives for the sake of my children's salvation and growth in Christ. I was ashamed and humbled before God with my foolish fears and doubts. Even though I had been faithless and ready to quit to avoid suffering, God had remained faithful and encouraged me when I needed encouragement most (2 Timothy 2:13a).

God is waiting to encourage you today, too. He wants to meet you right where you are and give you the strength you need to be a faithful teacher. Learn from His sacrificial and loving example to faithfully teach you. "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds" (Hebrews 12:2-3).

Jesus, your love for me amazes me every day. My life is not my own, and I recommit my family and homeschooling to You today. Use me to be a blessing to these wonderful children. Help me stand against the temptation to feel sorry for myself. In Your precious name, Amen.

Author Unknown

As I stood in front of the formidable shelves of books in our local library, I wondered where to begin. Finding thought-provoking books with godly and moral values shouldn't have been so difficult, but it was. Frustrated, I prayed and asked God to help me in my search for wholesome literature for my children. The thought, "consider the source" came to my mind. I realized God was prompting me to first study the authors, and then I would find the right books.

No matter how objective an author attempts to be, his beliefs and attitudes are reflected in the words and content he chooses to write about. Studying the author's life before reading his book saves hours of wasting time reading nonsense and foolishness. I learned you couldn't always "judge a book by its glitzy cover" and that it was better to flip to the back panel and read the author's biography first.

Praise God, we don't have to worry about trusting the authors' words of the greatest book written-the Bible. Although God used the personalities of thirty-five different men to pen the words, they only wrote as God moved them: "But holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" (2 Peter 1:21b). God is the author of every inspired word contained within the sixty-six books of the Bible (II Timothy 3:16).

God is not only the author of the Bible, but He is also the author of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is also the author of love, and we love Him because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). He is the author of forgiveness who died for us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8). God even authored the saving work He began in us and will perform it until Christ returns (Philippians 1:6).

Is God the author who has influenced you the most in your life? If not, go again to the Bible and rediscover the wonder and holiness of the mighty One who wrote it. His promises are sure, and His words will guide you throughout your entire life. Not only is He the author of our beginning, but He will also be the author of the end. "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last" (Revelation 22:13).

Father, you knew me before I was even born, and I thank You for being the author of my life. Reveal more of Yourself to me through Your holy Word and continue to show me how to live for You until You bring me home. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Done Box

Sitting in the corner of our kitchen like a trophy on a mantle was the "done" box. Each homeschooling year was begun with a new box to collect each of our children's completed worksheets and lessons. Originally designed to provide documentation of our children's schoolwork to state authorities, the done box came to represent something different as the homeschooling years went on.

The done box became a physical representation of my children's diligence, hard work, and determination to complete their studies. When we became discouraged and thought we had not achieved much in our homeschooling, the piles of paper in the done box became a reminder of our productivity. Seeing what we had completed motivated us to continue working hard to finish our homeschool year.

Many times, we wonder if God is really leading us in our spiritual walk. Like David in Psalms, we need to remember where we have been and how God has led us (Psalm 42:6). Looking back on all God had done for him as king, David could only sing praises to God and look forward to the next step in God's plan.

Do you need to be encouraged in your homeschooling today? Take a look back and see what you have accomplished with your children. Have your children become good readers? Do you see godly character qualities reflected in their behavior? Is your family emotionally close and strong? Thank God today for what He has strengthened you to do, and continue looking forward to the next homeschooling step. "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:13-14).

Jesus, I give You the glory for the homeschool blessings You have given to our family. Thank You for all the past victories and encourage me to trust You for our homeschooling future. In Your precious name, Amen.

Another Day at the Sink

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).

If homeschool parents had lecture podiums like school teachers, mine would have definitely been the kitchen sink. From this central location, I was able to deliver endless hours of instruction in spelling words, poem memorization, and multiplication facts. Multi-tasking from this "lectern" proved to be the only way I could complete daily lesson plans and my chores of washing dishes, preparing meals, and cleaning messes.

However, more than academics were taught from this "homeschooling hub." The kitchen sink was also the center of holiday activities, political and theological debates, and personal counseling sessions while washing and drying dishes. Although I felt chained to it at times, I realized later that the kitchen sink was the center of our family's home. My children's fondest homeschool memories were seeing their mother happily working in the kitchen and knowing she was available to help answer any question they might have.

God wants to be the center of your life, too. His podium is not a kitchen sink, but a great, white throne (Revelation 20:11). From it, He is able to answer your prayers, and He loves to instruct you each day in how to live your life for Him. You can come boldly to this throne of grace anytime you are afraid or unsure about what to do. If homeschooling is starting to make you feel chained down, find the secret of success by keeping God in the center of your life. Go to the center of the Bible, Psalm 118:8, and rediscover how you can be in the center of God's will today.

Jesus, I invite You to be the center of my life and home. Thank You for being such a loving God who answers all of my prayers. The strength of Your holy presence brings joy to my soul and peace to my anxious heart. In Your name, Amen.

Anger Management

You never mean to use anger to discipline your children, but sometimes it becomes part of your homeschooling day. Perhaps you're too tired to get up again to reinforce your correction for the millionth time, or maybe you subconsciously model the parenting you received when you were a child. Whatever the reason, you find yourself caught in the deadly trap of yelling at your children to make them obey.

I'm sure my yelling must have made God cringe as He heard me destroying my children's tender hearts. Unfortunately, when they ignored the rough words, I felt like I was losing control, so I used even tougher words. I justified myself in the name of discipline, but I knew this wasn't the right way to correct a child. I knew I needed help. My anger was beginning to control more than my children. It was beginning to control me!

Finally, conviction came to me one day when I "lost it" with my young son. I still remember the day on the stairsteps up to his room. Time stopped as I saw my son's frightened eyes in response to my anger. How could someone so small and innocent be blamed for bringing out the huge ugliness inside of me? I never thought that pressure from situations beyond my control would push me to such actions, but God certainly revealed the worst inside my black heart. I needed to learn some anger management, fast!

James 1:19-20 brought me to my senses, "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God." On January 5, 1983, I realized my anger for what it was. I found the gentle forgiveness of God's correction and earnestly applied this same forgiveness to my children for the rest of their homeschooling days. Disciplining my children remained, but my anger no longer had a place in it. Instead, house rules and accompanying consequences for violations were decided upon as a family and posted on the refrigerator.

Does anger play a role in disciplining at your house? If so, do not give the devil an opportunity to cause you to sin any longer (Ephesians 4:27). Let Christ's love fill your heart and your home and "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).

Father, forgive me today for using my anger when disciplining my children. Convict me of this sin and help me to always discipline in love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

White Dog - Black Dog

"I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD" Psalm 116:17.

A new day to homeschool waits in front of you, but already your restless mind is walking you through the countless problems and chores left over from yesterday. You feel the negativity crawling up your back like an impending viral cold. Once again, you face the choice of feeding the white dog of hopeful expectations and thankfulness or the black dog of despair and complaining. Which dog will you choose to feed with your thoughts?

To feed the white dog of thankfulness is really a choice each of us makes. After all, doesn't everyone have issues to deal with in life? Maybe the issues involve wayward children, a lack of finances, hurt feelings, or the loss of a loved one. Whatever the problem, God asks us to continue to look to Him and express a heart of thankfulness. "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

There were ten lepers in Luke 17:13 who needed healing and cried out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" But why was there only one who came back to thank Christ when He healed them of their dreaded disease? Apparently nine of them hadn't yet learned the lesson of feeding the white dog of thankfulness. Selfishly, they went on their way enjoying their good fortune. But one leper understood like Job that it was God who gives us everything we have or have not: "The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21b).

How about you? Which dog is barking at you the loudest today? Will you choose to feed the white dog with thankful thoughts for your children, home, and other blessings, or will you feed the black dog with your thoughts of frustration, failure, and anxieties over what you do not have? Both dogs want to grow stronger in your life. Which will you feed?

Jesus, forgive me when I feed the black dog of my old sinful, selfish nature that says: "Life isn't fair!" Forgive me for whining like a little puppy, and help me express a heart full of thankfulness in praise to You today! In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Pit Hours

"Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved" (Psalm 55:22).

The toughest time of the day for homeschool moms of young children has to be from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For some reason, God chooses to give children a second wind after supper, but forgets to include the moms. We have to collect the pieces of a long homeschooling day that lie strewn throughout the house and also give baths, read nighttime stories, and put the children to bed. With our energy levels already running on empty, all of this work seems like a formidable, medieval castle. Where are our knights in shining armor to rescue us?

Praise God, my knight was my wonderful husband. He developed a system that knocked down these chores with one swift blow. While I cleaned the kitchen after supper, he managed the bath time, pajamas, and book reading. Together, we would both be finished in time to tuck each child into bed with prayers and kisses. Without my husband's loving help, I'm sure the dragons of homeschool discouragement would have eaten me alive.

Are you facing the nighttime dragons of homeschool despair? If so, ask God to send you the help you need. If your husband isn't available to help, perhaps there is another family member who can help you face this time of the day with courage-grandparents, older children, others? God knows you need extra strength. He will redeem you from the pit and send the knight you need. "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness" (Isaiah 41:10).

Jesus, I'm so tired! Please help me find the strength I need to finish all that needs to be done. I trust You for the provision I need today. In Your name, Amen.

In High Places

"For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God" Romans 13:1b

Standing in the rotunda of our state capitol, I knew this homeschool field trip was going to be a memorable day for my children and me. We could feel the history of past generations all around us as we visited our state senator, a long-time family friend. We had come to see the compelling process of how a bill becomes law, and we weren't disappointed.

Sitting on the floor of the legislature, our senator taught my children many things that day. He showed them how bills are introduced on the floor, how they are voted upon, and how bills get pigeon-holed because of amendments or filibusters. But the most important lesson he taught them came when he humbly shared his faith in God and said, "All these honored congressmen and women are just ordinary people put in high places by God."

Jesus chose twelve men to represent Him to the world before He left this earth. These disciples started out as simple, ordinary fishermen, tax collectors, and laborers, but Christ gave them all power and authority to be His witnesses (Mark 3:13-15). Although they didn't work in capitol buildings making laws, they were able to change the world through their faithful testimonies and God's mighty power.

Maybe you're feeling unimportant and insignificant today as a homeschool parent. Are you wondering if what you're doing will really make any difference? Although you may never stand before legislators or kings, God has given you an audience He values very much-your children. These precious gifts have been given to you to teach, and He wants you to lead them into a personal, godly relationship with Him. Besides, who knows what great and mighty things will be accomplished through their simple, ordinary lives?

Father, thank You for using the ordinary people in this world. Strengthen me to be faithful in the place You have given me to be Your witness-my home. Show me how to teach my children to follow Your leadership, so You can use them mightily. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"I will greatly praise the LORD with my mouth; yea, I will praise him among the multitude" (Psalm 109:30).

My children loved studying the heroic story about the Pilgrims in our homeschool history class. The Mayflower voyage, Squanto's corn planting and hunting lessons, and the first Thanksgiving all captured my children's deepest interest. But the one story of the Pilgrims that most affected my family was the story about "The Starving Time" during the spring of 1623.

Imagine going through the cold, New England winter living off a slim, summer corn crop and a few fish. Every person suffered daily from hunger and watched as the food supplies continued to dwindle. Tradition states that eventually, all that was left for this band of Pilgrims to eat each day was five kernels of parched corn. Certainly, this is a stark contrast to the Thanksgiving most of us experience!

Because my children's compassionate hearts were touched by this story, we began placing five corn kernels by each of our plates for our Thanksgiving Day meal. We used this tradition to remember the Pilgrims' sacrifice and to reflect on the many blessings God had given us. One by one, we would each take our five kernels and offer thanks for five blessings. This ceremony came to be the most meaningful time of our Thanksgiving Day meal.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? God has blessed you with so much-salvation, health, children, and a home. Perhaps you can encourage your own children to be thankful this Thanksgiving. Count the kernels and count the blessings from our loving Father. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights" (James 1:17a).

Gracious Father, what a loving God You are! I praise You for all the good things You have given me. When I get discouraged, help me to remember Your goodness every day of the year, as I count my many blessings. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Fleshy Teaching

Do you remember the day you decided to homeschool? You knew you needed to make a change in your child's education, but you had no clue how to get started. You felt helpless and utterly dependent on God's guidance and waited on His leading to know where to go and whom to talk to for advice.

Now that a few years have passed, your dependence on the Lord has begun to wane. You're homeschooling more each day in your own fleshy effort, and have forgotten about your total dependence on the Lord. Left unchecked, your homeschooling efforts are headed for a major failure without God's strength and wisdom for each day. "Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD" (Jeremiah 17:5).

How would you rate yourself as a homeschool parent today? James 3:1 reminds us that teaching our children is a great and awesome responsibility: "My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation." The judgment that will fall on us as teachers is stricter than if we choose not to teach. Christ illustrated this point well to the disciples in Matthew 18:6, "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea."

What you teach each day influences and shapes your little ones. Be careful not to teach in your own efforts. Go to the Lord and ask for the Holy Spirit to give you the confidence of being in His will, instead of controlling things yourself. "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts" (Zechariah 4:6).

Father, forgive me for homeschooling in my own strength. You have a perfect lesson plan for my children each day. Help me seek Your face every morning in prayer, so I am teaching my children what they need to know. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Tough Teaching

"But, Mom," my son cried. "I know I already did these math problems! I don't want to do them over again. My paper has to be somewhere!"

"I'm sorry," I replied. "You may have done them, but they're not here now. We've spent fifteen minutes looking for your math worksheet, and it's nowhere to be found. You'll have to do them over."

Frustration crossed my son's face, but I resisted the temptation to let this missing assignment go unaddressed. Another precedent was being set and my son needed to realize he was responsible for maintaining and organizing his work. My actions seemed tough, but I was considering the future. No college professor or employer would tolerate an excuse of, "I had it somewhere, but I can't find it now."

Sometimes God has to be a tough teacher to us as well. King David's attempt to bring the ark of the covenant back to Jerusalem in 2 Samuel 6 is a prime example. Although the Bible doesn't explain the reason, David neglected to transport the ark according to God's holy laws-on poles carried on the shoulders of the high priests (Exodus 25:14). Instead, David placed the ark on a cart, and Uzzah suffered death when he reached out to steady the ark when the oxen nearly upset it. David had done the right thing, but not in the right way. His irreverence for God's commands and holiness brought about God's response of tough correction.

How about you? Are you in the middle of the consequences of your selfish sin and God's tough love? Quit trying to fix things your own way. Let yourself be trained by His righteousness. You may have to suffer for awhile, but even though you've failed, God's unconditional love will still guide you to the next step. "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed" (Hebrews 12:11-13).

God, forgive me for trying to fix my mess on my own. Strengthen me to learn from this mistake by Your firm but loving hand of correction. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Hiding Out

Do you feel empty today? Is the idea of homeschooling your children overwhelming? Some days, you just don't feel like being profound and inspirational. You would rather hide in bed under the covers or lock yourself away in the bathroom for several hours. The last thing you have is your act together, and you don't feel like disciplining yourself to keep going. Saying yes to your selfish feelings and jumping into irresponsibility would be so much easier.

Wait. Stop and think about those who are depending on you. Just as you expect your children to fight off feelings of laziness and complacency, you, too, must reach up to the One whose purpose and plans are so much higher than yours. God has put you in this place of leadership for a reason. To be the leader of your children's education, you must ask God for the strength you need to make homeschooling decisions.

Saul was no different in accepting his leadership role in the Old Testament. Instead of assuming and looking forward to being the first king of Israel, he was found hiding himself by the baggage (1 Samuel 10:21-22). Samuel had already anointed him privately as king (1 Samuel 10:1), but when time came for Saul to be made king publicly, Samuel had to bring all the tribes of Israel forward to find him. Saul, too, wanted to escape his responsibilities and hide out.

So, will you jump into the arms of God today or into the arms of irresponsibility? My prayer is that you will find the courage you need to continue being faithful in your homeschooling. May you believe the same promise God gave Joshua when he faced his responsibilities of leading God's people into the Promised Land: "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest" (Joshua 1:9).

Heavenly Father, my homeschooling responsibilities are weighing me down today. Please lift me up and give me the courage I need to keep going. Please fill me with the Holy Spirit and show me how to lead the precious children You have given me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

What's Next

"But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering" James 1:6a

One technique I commonly used to motivate my children when homeschooling was the "cliff hanger." I would entice my children's appetite to learn by only presenting enough information to get them excited. Reading only to a climatic part in a story, I would stop and say, "If you want to find out what happens, you'll have to read the rest for yourself!" This tactic was a great motivator, especially for my oldest daughter who couldn't stand not knowing the ending.

As adults, not knowing the ending can be frustrating, too. Who doesn't want to know what is going to happen next? If we had our way, we'd love to have God spell out the answers and endings to life's problems. But like the men and women of faith listed in Hebrews 11, we must learn how to live trusting God. Tucked away in this great chapter is the secret that will enable us to keep going when we don't know what we should do-diligence. Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." We sacrifice faith's reward too easily!

Do you believe God will show you what to do when you need an answer? Are you diligently seeking Him each day believing that He exists and hears every one of your prayers? Read far enough into His Word today until you find a promise just for your problem, and then trust His Word to light your path (Psalm 119:105)! You may not know the answer or see the ending to the problem you are facing right now, but like the men and women of faith who have gone before you, you know the One who is leading you. He will reward you with understanding and wisdom to face every cliff hanger you may have.

Father, thank You for not abandoning me. Some days I have no idea what to do to handle the day's homeschooling problems. Please hear my prayer of faith today and reveal the answers I need. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Big Sky, Big God

"Thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice" Psalm 65:8b

Living in western Nebraska where the sky is bigger than the ground, our homeschooling family developed a particular love of studying the clouds and the sky. On countless occasions, one of my children would come running into the house and say, "Mom, you've got to come and see this!" Walking outside together, we would stand and watch as God painted a breathtaking scene just for us on the canvas of His sky. Each inspiring sunrise or sunset seemed to make all the homeschooling problems of the day fade away into insignificance.

For the next several years, I learned the "art" of enjoying God's beauty. Each time I felt the four walls closing in on my homeschooling day, I would walk outside to view God's multicolored and intricately patterned sky. The kaleidoscope of colors that surrounded me in the vastness of His sky reminded me of my smallness and God's greatness. I realized I was totally dependent on my infinite Creator for all things, including the courage and creativity that I needed to face another homeschooling day.

Are the pressures of homeschooling squeezing the life out of you today? If so, step outside, look up to the sky, and drink in His beauty. God is waiting to revive you today with the glory of His presence and the wonder of His magnificent creation in the heavens. "O LORD, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens. When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him" (Psalm 8:1, 3-4)?

Lord, how great You are! I give You the glory today for being such an awesome God! I praise You for the beauty of Your creation and reminding me that I am in Your constant care. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Are You Listening?

Like many homeschooling mothers, I sat working at the kitchen table as my children worked on their schoolwork. Although I was supposed to be teaching, I was also doing several other jobs at the same time-washing clothes, cooking supper, and grading papers. As I snipped fresh green beans from our garden for our evening meal, my son asked me a question about his math. He was having difficulty with factoring numbers and needed my help.

"Mom," he said. "Are you listening to me?"

"Yes, I'm listening," I replied not looking up from my work.

"But Mom, would you please listen to me with your eyes?" he quickly responded.

Looking up, I understood what he was really saying. He wanted my undivided attention.

Many times we, too, fail to give God our undivided attention. How many times do you coordinate the noon meal and the following day's activities in your mind while listening to the Sunday morning sermon? What about when you are praying together with people in a Bible study group-does your mind wander to work and worries, or do you actually pray with the person who is speaking? Not focusing our thoughts on the sermon or the prayer requests causes us to wander from being a part of God's will.

Are the day's responsibilities distracting you from hearing God's voice today? Do your prayers seem to get stuck on the ceiling? Do you find yourself rereading what you just read in the Bible and not getting anything from the passage? Stop and look up. Focus your eyes on the One who loves you most. He is waiting for your undivided attention, so He can teach you great and marvelous things. "For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him" (2 Chronicles 16:9a).

Lord, forgive me for my half-hearted attempts at prayer and devotions. Teach me to honor You by diligently seeking You with all I am, so I walk in Your perfect will today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Real Deal

"Brethren, pray for us" 1 Thessalonians 5:25

Seated with my children in the living room, we had just begun our homeschooling day with devotions. The morning had been hectic like usual, and I wasn't in the best of moods. No matter how hard I tried, the starting time for school seemed to be getting later each day. Feeling incompetent as a teacher and trying to make up for lost time, I quickly asked my children, "Is there anything we need to pray about?" Several needs were expressed by each of my young children, which I hurriedly wrote down. But as I started to pray, my son interrupted and asked, "Mom, what about you? Is there something you need prayer for today?"

As usual, his little emotional monitors had seen right through me and perceived my anxiousness and lack of sincerity. Nobody has time for a fake, especially children. Now was the time to admit the truth about what I was really feeling. "Yes, honey," I answered. "I need God to help me slow down and enjoy the day with you."

Exposing our hearts can be a struggle. Homeschooling parents think they have to be spiritually strong for the family and forget that sometimes the best prayer warriors in the family can be their own children. Although we must be careful to share appropriate prayer requests with younger children, their simple, trusting prayers might be the ones that encourage and bless us the most.

Living behind perfectly painted smiles and "I'm fine" responses, isolates us from the love of others, including our children. Don't deny them the privilege of interceding in prayer for your needs. "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous ‘child' availeth much" (James 5:16).

Heavenly Father, I humbly come before You and thank You again for giving me such wonderful children. I truly am blessed to be loved by them and by You. Help me appropriately share my weaknesses and find strength today from their caring prayers. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Treasures in Heaven

"For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" Luke 12:34

My twelve-year-old son's favorite pastime after our homeschooling day was looking for hidden items in the ground with his metal detector. Searching for money, old bullet shells, jewelry, and other items consumed hours of his time. At first, I loved seeing his excited face as he came running into the house with each latest "treasure." But then I noticed a change in his attitude. Like a gambler placing his next bet, he seemed to be driven to find the next treasure that might be worth hundreds of dollars. Greed had taken over, and we needed to bring his hobby under Christ's lordship.

As Christians, we spend hours looking for purpose and meaning in the treasures of this world, too. Sadly, these treasures begin to lose their value and we start to look for bigger and better cars, homes, cameras, clothes, and pleasurable items. Like the foolish man in Luke 12:16-21, whose life was cut short, we may find someone else enjoying the very treasures we were storing for ourselves. "But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided" (Luke 12:20)?

What about you? Is your treasure in heaven or are you building bigger barns for more treasures on earth? Heed God's warning today and think about making yourself rich toward God, instead of pleasing yourself. "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal" Matthew 6:19-20.

Father, every day I feel bombarded by the temptation to want more. Help me to concentrate on the things on this earth that are truly important and to search the Scriptures for the treasures of Your promises. In the name of Your son, Jesus. Amen.

What Should I Do?

"A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps" Proverbs 16:9

Do you ever wish you could wake up in the morning and let someone else figure out how your homeschool day is supposed to go? My indecisiveness in homeschooling was usually generated by the fear of making the wrong decisions. What if we were using the wrong curriculum? What if my children weren't getting enough social interaction? What if my children weren't learning what they needed to know to be successful in college? Wasn't there someplace I could go to find all the answers, so I didn't have to second guess myself anymore?

Gideon had a problem with deciding what to do when God called him to defeat the enemies of Israel, the Midianites. He wasn't so sure he saw the warrior in himself that God claimed him to be in Judges 6:12. How could he fight against these men trained in war when all he had known was farming? But Gideon learned the secret to defeating indecision. He simply brought the problems of fighting the battle to the Lord and left the choices up to Him. He only needed to obey and do what God showed him. Even when his faith was small and he had to ask for God's guidance a second time, God lovingly answered with the fleece of faith that was first wet, and then dry.

Are you wringing your hands with indecision and wondering if you have what it takes to be an effective homeschooling parent? Remember the story of Gideon. You may not be a "certified" teacher, but you know the Lord is mighty. If He has called you to homeschool, He will tell you the answers to every question you have about how to teach. He will make you a mighty warrior in the education of your children, and perform amazing miracles of provision when you need them most. You can leave all the decisions to God, and He will show you the way. "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left" Isaiah 30:21.

Father, I really need Your help to know what to do today when homeschooling my children. Show me what lessons to focus on and what lessons to leave for another day. Guide me with Your Word and bring those circumstances into our lives that reveal Your divine hand of guidance. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

No More

When we first started homeschooling, I was so excited to give my children the opportunity to experience every learning situation available. My schedule included lofty ideas of weekly field trips and my children's involvement in any sport, music, or church activity they wanted to attend after all, we wanted to make sure no one accused us of isolating our children. However, after homeschooling three to four months, I realized my sanity was at stake if I continued to run my four children out the door to each of their daily activities. The half completed projects and academic assignments that were left behind added additional proof we had a problem. That's when I decided: no more.

New changes were made at our house, and we began to reevaluate what was important to our children's education. Even worthwhile activities within our church and homeschool group had to be analyzed and prayed over. We simply did not have enough time to participate in everything that was available. "Simplify" became my theme, and I rediscovered the joy of homeschooling our children again.

Moses was a great leader in the Bible, but even he had to learn how to simplify his life. After leading God's people out of Egypt, Moses had the awesome responsibility of making this mass of people get along. Imagine dealing with the issues created by millions of people living together out in the wilderness. Moses was burning out fast trying to keep ahead of all the demands. Fortunately, Jethro, his father-in-law noticed what was happening and gave him some practical ideas to get his life back (Exodus 18:17-27).

What about your family? Are you running from activity to activity and missing the whole point of homeschooling - you know, the schooling you're supposed to be doing at home? Life already has enough demands on us to hurry and miss the joy of loving relationships. Don't let the world pull you off the track God has given you in homeschooling. Guard your time together and pray before you say "yes" to one more thing. Remember, we're not isolating. We're equipping our children to grow in their walk with Christ and that simply takes time. "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is" Ephesians 5:15-17

Lord, our family is on overload and we need Your help. Programs and activities have replaced people and relationships, and we need Your discernment to rediscover why we are homeschooling. Bring us back to our first loves-You and each other. In Jesus' name, Amen.

I tried to listen to the deeper message my high school daughter was communicating as she went on about all the terrible things in her life. Her list continued to lengthen until she stopped mid-sentence and said, "My life's just a pain." Most of her issues involved trusting God for future provisions and the challenge of waiting on Him for these unknowns. I could see her faith being stretched, but I was bothered by her ungrateful response to what God had already given her. Couldn't she see all the blessings around her? Didn't she know and appreciate how much we had sacrificed to give her the best education at home?

Just as I started to have a pity party, God stopped me and spoke to my heart. "Dear one," He said. "Don't you know that you complain to me every day? I gave you everything I had when I sacrificed my life on the cross to save you, yet you grumble about this and that and forget the price I paid to call you my child." Wow, God doesn't pull any punches. He was absolutely right! Many times throughout our homeschool years my actions and words had failed to communicate a loving trust in His provision. Perhaps my own daughter's struggle was simply reflecting my own failings in trusting God. I was doubly convicted of my ungrateful heart.

Together, my daughter and I turned to God's Word. We let the anxious thoughts go as we laid our problems before the Lord. Instead of whining and complaining, we brought our petitions before God with thanksgiving for what He had already given us (Philippians 4:6). God had already blessed us with so much, and He opened our eyes to trust Him for the unknowns that lay ahead.

Are you struggling with the future and where life is headed? Do you feel like you'll never reach any of your dreams? Turn around and look at every blessing He has given you in the past, and you'll be amazed! God has done so much. Can't He do even more? Trust Him to meet your needs today. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee" Isaiah 26:3.

Father, forgive me for doubting Your loving care for me. I know You have everything under control and will reveal Your will to me at the proper time. Help me to defeat the discouraging doubts when they come and to cling to You for all I need. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Down, but Not Out

You know your homeschooling day hasn't gone well when your husband comes home from work and finds you crying. Some days being a Christian and a homeschooling mom puts you into situations that tear you down and bring you to tears. The rejection by others overwhelms, frightens, angers, and discourages you into giving up. The world does all it can do to convince you that you are a fool for following Christ and His call to educate your children.

But opposition to following God's plans is nothing new. In the Bible, Nehemiah faced ridicule when carrying out God's plan to rebuild the broken wall around the city of Jerusalem. Led by the Lord to return to Jerusalem after years of exile, Nehemiah faced a huge task and the negative harassment from enemies like Sanballat and Tobiah (Nehemiah 4). The secret of Nehemiah's success in rallying the workers and overcoming his enemies' discouragement is stated in verse 16a, "And it came to pass from that time forth, that the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons." Praying to the Lord and setting their mind to work, Nehemiah grouped the people together to build the portion of the wall nearest their homes. With half of the people standing guard and half of the people building the wall, the work was soon finished in the face of those who opposed them.

As homeschoolers, we need to set our minds to the work of educating our children. Divide the task of homeschooling your children. Enlist the prayer support of your spouse, homeschooling friends, or others who will guard your back with the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17) against Satan's fiery darts of discouragement. God's strength is available to succeed, but you must set your mind to work and pray.

Father, the task of homeschooling seems huge, and the discouragement I am facing today seems even larger. Help me set my mind toward the work of homeschooling our children today, and send prayer warriors who are willing to defend me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Daisy

What picture comes to your mind when you hear of a cow named Daisy? Do you see a soft-eyed jersey with a sweet, calm nature? That's what my son and I were hoping for when we adopted a baby twin calf from our neighbor one spring for a homeschooling project. Although she was not a jersey, she did have the sweetest face with big eyelashes that looked like the petals on a daisy. Thus she was named, and a new adventure in raising a baby calf began for my son.

My misconception of the nurturing abilities of small boys was blown away as my son faithfully cared for his new little friend. Dutifully, he mixed bottles of calf milk replacer for her to drink. Outings with friends were postponed to keep Daisy on a regular feeding schedule, and school assignments were done in the barn so she wouldn't feel alone. Like a mother hen with her chicks, my son proved to be the ideal parent of this little life.

However, Daisy didn't stay little. With all her expert care, she began to grow stronger. At 300 pounds, I knew Daisy needed to be taught how to lead, so we could take her out to the pasture to eat grass. Accomplishing this task proved to be successful at first, but then at 500 pounds, Daisy started to "push her weight around." Many times I watched my frustrated young son dragging and being half drug by Daisy, as he took her from the barn to the pasture. When Daisy's weight reached 900 pounds, we had a real problem. Daily, she would jump the pasture fences to be near our house. No matter if flowers or gardens were in her way, Daisy went wherever she wanted. The time had come to sell Daisy, so she could discover her own nurturing abilities. But one problem stood in the way-the love of my young son for this once little, but now huge cow. How do you sell your "child" and watch her leave?

Sending your children off into the world isn't easy for homeschoolers either. As we teach our children, we forget that someday they will need to leave our home. Keeping the right perspective and preparing yourself and your child for that day takes a determined effort. God's example of cutting the strings best demonstrates how we can face that day when our children need to leave. He sacrificed His only begotton son when Christ came to this sinful earth (John 3:16), so we could receive forgiveness. Praise Him, "That spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all" Romans 8:32a.

Father, thank You for the blessing of homeschooling my children. Help me to remember they belong to You, and someday, they will serve You on their own. Give me wisdom to know when that time has come. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Cottonwood

"For I am the LORD, I change not" Malachi 3:6a.

The enormous cottonwood tree had stood for years outside the upstairs bedroom window of our farmhouse. As a young girl, I grew up playing in its branches and hiding behind its trunk during games of hide and seek. Its shade covered and cooled our house in the summer and its branches protected us from the fierce north winds of winter. Now, as an adult, I looked out the same window and watched as my young daughters played the same childhood games during recess from homeschooling. A third generation had come to this farm home, and somehow the cottonwood had remained the same-strong, protective, and majestic.

Very few things remain the same during one's lifetime. Perhaps that is why we feel insecure and uncertain many times. As Christians, however, we can find comfort in knowing, "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever" Hebrews 13:8. No matter what difficulties we face or what changes may come, God's constant and faithful love will never be different than it is today. We can always depend on the promises of His Word and the power of the Holy Spirit to guide and direct our lives.

What things in life are you counting on to always be around-a loved one, your money, your health, your children, a home? My old farmhouse is now torn down, my children are grown and have moved away, and the cottonwood is no more. The most important homeschool lesson has taken twenty-five years for me to learn-the only thing that will ever remain the same is the Lord. "Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed: But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end" Psalm 102:25-27.

Father God, I stand before You with thanksgiving and awe for being such a great and mighty God. Thank You for being the one thing in life I can always depend on. I give You my worship and my praise today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

How Much Wood?

Living and homeschooling on one income forced our family to heat our old farmhouse with wood for the winter months. Although our money was limited, the endless supply of wood available in our grove and the groves of neighbors was not. One math lesson my children wished they could have skipped learning was the dimension of a true "cord" of wood-4' x 4' x 8'.

Since we needed seven or eight cords of wood each winter, we had to begin our work during the summer months. Working together as family included big hands, medium hands, and even little hands to put up our needed supply. But one year, our wood cutting plans were changed by an unexpected course of events. My husband, who was the first link in our wood cutting regime, was hurt when cutting down a tree. As the tree fell, it twisted and hit him in the head, knocking him unconscious and leaving a huge gash in his forehead. My children and I were able to get him to the doctor, but we now faced the chore of cutting wood alone.

I normally cry when I am faced with overwhelming responsibility, but there was no time for tears. That fall I forced myself to learn how to operate the chainsaw as proficiently as my husband. My children stepped up and took on my usual tasks, and somehow we completed all the work. We finished and stacked the last piece of wood just before the first snow.

Have you ever wanted to cry when facing the enormous challenge of homeschooling? Teaching our children, maintaining a home, and fulfilling the duties of being a wife can bring you to tears. The responsibilities are just too much! Where will the strength come from to knock down each day's work? God is the One who will pick you up and give you the skills you need to teach your children. Even when you face topics or concepts you don't know, He will lead you to the right person to help. God has a burning passion for His children, and He won't leave you out in the cold. "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed" Romans 5: 3-5a.

Lord, thank You for being bigger than any giant I may have to face in homeschooling. Teach me how to be the best possible teacher for my children. I love You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Like the road signs that warn us of impending danger, there are also warning signs for parents on the road of homeschooling. We can either take heed to the dangers that they clearly indicate lay ahead, or we can choose to disobey these common hazard signs and end up in a homeschooling wreck.

When you see the "Slippery When Wet" sign of tears in your discouraged child's face, chances are you're leaving out the loving encouragement needed when teaching academics. Pay attention to the "High Wind Warning" sign and give your child the godly correction and discipline he needs when you hear the floors pounding and the windows rattling from his rebellion. Don't ignore your child exceeding the posted "Speed Limit" sign. When you see him hurrying through schoolwork or skipping devotions to run to another extra-curricular activity, you will need to take your child to parental court to reevaluate what's important in his life. Rest assured, disregarding these hazards and setting your homeschool on cruise will cause an accident.

God tells us to watch for warning signs in our spiritual lives, too. When we start to see the evidences of "Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like" (Galatians 5:19b-21a), we are headed down the dangerous road of living life in the flesh. Before you are pulled over by the Holy Spirit, take the next exit and pray. Turn your heart back to the Lord, and heed His warnings to keep your life headed in the right direction.

Lord, help me to recognize the danger signs of evil in my life and turn back to You. Teach me to stay close to You and to Your Word, so I stay on the path that leads to righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Thorn

"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: . . . and a time to heal" Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3b.

The pain in my daughter's palm was first apparent while practicing her piano lesson for school one day. A small discoloration and swelling was visible, but they seemed insignificant against the healthy flesh. As time went on, however, I observed the difficulty my daughter had while holding her pencil during schoolwork. I applied my own home remedies to help with the discomfort, but they brought little change. Eventually, a cyst was diagnosed by a specialist, and surgery was scheduled to remove it.

The night before her surgery, my daughter and I got home late after spending the evening roller skating with a group of homeschooling families. As I came to say goodnight, I looked at her hand one last time, since she had fallen and bumped her hand while skating. Amazingly, a crack had appeared in the swelling. Gently pulling the skin apart, I could just see the tip of something. Grabbing my tweezers and a flashlight, I proceeded to do "surgery." I stared in amazement as the "cyst" turned out to be an inch-long cactus thorn.

The incorrect diagnosis of my daughter's pain made me realize that we also misdiagnose the emotional problems in people's lives. Many times we fail to address the deeper issues of "why" a person is acting a certain way and simply respond to their outward displays of unloving behavior. Perhaps if we saw their problem through the eyes of the "Great Physician," we would know how to help their healing process. Christ's actions illustrate this best when He didn't debate or argue with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:7-26. Instead, He saw into her heart and addressed the pain of her failed relationships with men and the need she had to be forgiven and loved.

Is there a prickly person God has placed in your life? You know, one of those people who can't be pleased no matter what you do. The behavior he is displaying could be the result of many hidden, painful experiences. Instead of reacting negatively or avoiding him, respond in love. If you ask the Lord for wisdom to see into his true problems, He will show you the loving "surgery" that may help heal his pain.

Father, please help me love the unlovely people You've put into my life. Give me understanding to see the real "thorn" that is causing their pain and the desire to reach out with Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

No Peeking

"The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant" Psalm 25:14

Christmas is such a fun time for secrets. At our house, our four children were not allowed to look into the closets or under our bed until all the gifts were wrapped. Since we were homeschooling, enforcing this rule was not too difficult. However, even after the presents had been wrapped, determining what was inside was sometimes easy for my children to figure out, especially as they got older and smarter. I learned that if I wanted to surprise them at Christmas, I needed to cleverly disguise the box in which the gift was wrapped, even if disguising it meant adding a brick for extra weight.

Have you ever wondered why Jesus disguised His spiritual truths in parables when He lived on earth? Although He spoke to the multitudes, the gift of His truths about the kingdom of Heaven was hidden from those with hard hearts and ears that refused to listen (Matthew 13:10-15). The meaning of His message was only understood by those who sought the truth with repentant hearts.

Do the truths of God's Word seem hard to understand to you? When reading the Bible, you must come realizing the Scriptures "are spiritually discerned" (1 Corinthians 2:14b). That means unless you are born of the Spirit and filled with the Spirit, you will not understand God's Word. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the meaning of what you are reading in the Bible today. He promises to show you if you come with a repentant and obedient heart. "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart" Jeremiah 29:13.

Father, open my mind to understand the truth of Your Word. I want to do Your will, but I need Your guidance. Speak to my heart in the power of the Holy Spirit and reveal what You are teaching me from Your Word today. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Christmas Cheer

"She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed" Proverbs 31:26, 28a

"Let's go, Mom. Everyone is waiting for us in the car," cried my daughter as she ran out the door for the Christmas Eve program at church. I smiled at her enthusiasm and thought back to days when I was a young girl looking forward to Christmas. My Christmases were filled with relatives, oyster stew, chocolate covered cherries, Christmas programs at church, and opening gifts in knee-deep paper with my family of nine. But my most cherished memories of Christmas were the hours my mother and I spent beforehand wrapping gifts for my family.

My mother had an insatiable love for celebrating Christ's birth. She shared God's love through brightly lit decorations, great food, and presents. Yes, my mother loved to give presents, and she chose me to help her wrap them. Together we spent hours making perfect bows and wrapping "just one more box." I considered helping her a great honor because she trusted me not to tell my brothers and sisters what was in their packages.

When I grew older, I realized why my mother and I had so many gifts to wrap each year. Knowing she couldn't give us much, my mother cleverly wrapped each part of a gift into as many boxes as possible. She knew our young minds couldn't comprehend value, but we could count. To a young mind, the more presents you had, the better.

Tonight, I stood in my mother's place. My homeschool family was smaller, but our money to make Christmas special was just as short. As I turned to shut off the light and walk out the door, I smiled as I saw the huge pile of gifts waiting to be opened when we returned. My daughter and I had just finished wrapping them. Some Christmas traditions are just worth passing on.

Lord, thank You for the sacrificial love of mothers. Like the Proverbs 31 woman, give me wisdom to love my family with special acts of kindness. Teach me how to make every day a special gift with the same love that was given to me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Broccoli Soup

"A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit" Proverbs 29:23.

The snow was gently falling as we sat down to enjoy our Christmas Eve supper of soup, sandwiches, and cookies. The candles were lit and the light from the flickering flames made each homemade Christmas ornament hanging from the windows twinkle. The house was cozy and warm from a full day of cooking, and the fragrant aromas tantalized our taste buds. Four young faces were eagerly anticipating opening their Christmas gifts after the meal, and my husband and I smiled in satisfaction at God's blessings. With Grandpa and Grandma's arrival earlier that afternoon, the perfect Christmas scene was now complete.

I had worked so hard to make everything just right and wanted to impress my in-laws with a memorable Christmas. I had made this meal many times and felt confident as I dished out the two different choices of soup-chili or broccoli-cheese. As we closed our eyes and my husband offered a prayer of thanks to God, I looked down at my bowl. I couldn't believe my eyes. There, swimming on top of my broccoli soup, were a dozen knat-like bugs. I whispered to myself in agony, "Where did they come from?" Then, I remembered. I had forgotten to wash the broccoli before putting it into the soup. I could feel my heart sink with embarrassment even before my husband finished his prayer. This was going to be a memorable Christmas, all right, especially for my mother-in-law who had just been served buggy, broccoli soup.

Many times our motives for wanting things are so wrong. We want to impress instead of bless, and pride is waiting to bring us to our knees. What about your petitions? Are you selfishly asking God for things just to make you look good? If you're doing most of the talking during your prayer time with God, there may be a problem. Let the Holy Spirit correct your attitude today and don't wait to be served your cup of humble "soup." "Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished" Proverbs 16:5.

Lord, give me the same attitude that was in Christ Jesus when He emptied Himself to be born a man and to die for my sins. Teach me again how to be a servant and to care more about others than myself. In Jesus' name, Amen.

The Christmas Bean

I'm not sure how the tradition got started. I think my daughter first started the idea since she was the best "cake baker" in our homeschool family. Every Christmas we baked a small cake for a birthday party in Sunday school for Jesus. Using only half the dough, my daughter decided to use the other half for individual cupcakes for our family. She thought decorating these cupcakes for each person at our Christmas Eve dinner would be fun, and then she had an inspiration. Why not hide an uncooked kidney bean in one of the cupcakes? The person who found the bean baked in their cupcake would then be the first to open his gifts at Christmas.

Even today my daughter continues this Christmas tradition. In fact, our family's Christmas wouldn't be complete without it. But that's how traditions get started, isn't it? Most times, traditions make our lives more meaningful. They give us a sense of security, and a sense of roots and familiarity.

But sometimes, traditions can sap the very life from us. When we allow the traditions and rituals in our worship to replace a vibrant relationship with Christ, we quench the Holy Spirit. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for this sin when He said, "But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men" (Matthew 15:9). God desires a circumcised heart that is tender and humble in worship. Paul warned the Colossians of the same problem, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ" (Colossians 2:8).

Any tradition can replace true love and heartfelt responses, but we must be especially careful not to approach our Holy God only with token rituals begun by man. Christ's response to the woman at the well says how we should worship best: "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth" John 4:23-24.

Lord, forgive me when I think I've worshiped You simply by going to church or offering up a prayer. Help me to remember that in the family of God, You desire a heartfelt love in my worship. I offer my love to You anew. In Jesus' name, Amen.