Monday, August 12^th, Defend the Weak-

Many students come into the classroom on a daily basis who live in less than ideal circumstances. Poverty, illness, and loss of one or both parents are just some issues that make kids feel helpless. Pray for teachers to build them up. Also pray that teachers will be aware of bullying and meanness in the classroom and school and come to the defense of students being picked on.

“Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 82:3-4

Tuesday, August, 13^th, Influence –

Most people go into teaching because they want to influence the next generation. Pray that teachers will have the energy and time to participate in out-of-school activities as these are often the best places to really get to know students. The picture below is a group of girls whom I have invested in at different levels over the last two years. This happened not because I have a lot of answers or am a great role model but simply because I made time. (And pray for these girls as the head off to college this week – sniff, sniff).

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Wednesday, August 14^th, Joyful Spirit-

No one wants to sit in a class with a teacher who doesn’t have a good disposition and a sense of humor, but it’s so easy for teachers to be sucked into complaining, grumbling, and whining. Pray for teachers to be able to enjoy the moment and laugh. I read this week that infants and preschoolers laugh 300 times per day while adults only laugh 20. It’s time for the teacher to learn from the student.

“A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed.” Proverbs 15:13

Thursday, August 15^th,  Emotional Fortitude-

Doing the right thing at the right time often takes courage. Sometimes hard conversations need to happen and changes need to be made that require great personal sacrifice. Pray for teachers to be willing to do the right thing even if it is difficult.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Friday, August 16th, Authority –

No matter who you are or what position you hold, you answer to someone. Pray that teachers will respect authority at the school, local, state, and national level and work in a way that honors those in authority over the classroom teacher. Pray also that teachers will be a positive role model to students and the community concerning school administration.

“All of you must be willing to obey completely those who rule over you. There are no authorities except the ones God has chosen. Those who now rule have been chosen by God. ² So when you oppose the authorities, you are opposing those whom God has appointed. Those who do that will be judged.” Romans 13:1-2