Teacher Devotion for the Week of February 28, 2010

HELP ME TO AVOID "SLANDER"

 

Psalms 15:l-3 “LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?[2] He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart [3] and has no slander on his tongue,  who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman (NIV) .”

 

Slander is a “statement that brings its subject to disrepute" or in modern terms, it is “a put down or a slam”.  Unfortunately, in today's society much of our comedy and entertainment hinges on slander or slurs.  Americans mimic these comedians by repeating their sarcastic, cutting remarks at the expense of hurting others.  Our "cuteness" and twist of words are cutting deep into the significance of those we love leaving wounds and scars that may take an entire lifetime to heal. 

 

In times past, cutting words were used only for those we disdained and wanted to dishonor.  However, in modern society, we expect even our youngest and most sensitive children to be "tough enough" to take it.  Comedians and class clowns value their ability to "crack a joke” using someone as the object of that joke.  The "life" of the party is usually the most slanderous of the crowd.  He is the guy who can point out every flaw, twist every statement, and relate every gesture to some underlying meaning.  The entire group accepts him as "adorable" and acceptable while we hide our secret pain when he turns the joke on us.  We feel ashamed if we let it hurt our feelings.  We don’t want to appear immature or weak.

 

At the risk of sounding stiff and "out of the flow", I would like to say that this "jesting" is nothing more than rudeness!  Why has our society decided that this rudeness is acceptable and cute?  Psalms 15 makes it clear that those who seek to dwell in His sanctuary (His Secret Place) will not slander his brother.  He will be sensitive to his brother's emotional needs and would never risk hurting him by using him as part of a joke.  I wonder if we, without realizing it, have taken a detour to follow the path of those on the broad road.  Slander does destroy.  Think about it for awhile.  Emotional wounds heal slowly.  The pain can last a lifetime.

 

DEAR GOD--FORGIVE ME FOR ACCEPTING THE WORLD'S OPINION ON PUT-DOWNS AND SLAMS.  HELP ME TO REALIZE THE POWER OF WORDS AS I TEACH AND WORK WITH THE STUDENTS, STAFF AND PARENTS OF MY SCHOOL.  IT IS MY DESIRE TO DWELL IN YOUR HOLY PLACE.  I WANT TO UNDERSTAND YOUR WAYS.

 

Teacher Devotion for the Week of February 21, 2010

ASK THEM! DON’T JUST TELL THEM!

Teacher Devotion for the Week of February 21, 2010

 

Romans 14:13 “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.”

 

I learned a valuable lesson during my first year of teaching from a quiet, well-mannered ninth grader. In fact, this is a story I tell students each year to illustrate the correct way to respond to a teacher when she is wrong. 

 

I was busy, as usual, rushing around the school trying to get all of my goals accomplished before the day was over. As I passed Dan’s desk (not his real name), I said, “Dan, you have a detention for gum. You know you can’t have gum in school.” I hardly missed a step as I continued on to the front of the classroom to write down the detention. 

 

Dan sat quietly and waited for an opportunity to speak with me. Later, I walked toward the back of the classroom near his desk. “Mrs. Wyrick, may I speak to you?” he asked in a soft tone. I nodded. He said, “Mrs. Wyrick, I wasn’t chewing gum. Mr. Wilson gave me permission to have a cough drop.”

 

I was embarrassed. I thanked him for his kindness and patience with me, and, of course, I quickly removed the detention off the record book. I was guilty of an assumption. I “told” him what he did wrong, rather than “asked” him for information. Although this story shows a great example of how a student can appeal respectfully and quietly, it is also an example of how “not” to approach a student who appears to be disobeying.

 

Not only will a question help clarify the child’s intent. It also allows the student to confess with his mouth when he is wrong. Confession is good for us all when we are wrong. When we are not wrong, it is good to have an opportunity to say so. Do not get too busy to deal with negative situations properly.

 

DEAR GOD, THANK YOU FOR THIS MILD-MANNERED STUDENT THAT TAUGHT ME THIS VALUABLE LESSON. MAY WE ALL LEARN TO DEAL CAREFULLY WITH THOSE WE SERVE. REMIND ME NOT TO PASS JUDGMENT ON STUDENTS WHEN I DON’T HAVE THE DETAILS.


Teacher Devotion for the Week of February 14, 2010

HELP ME TO SEE MY STUDENTS AS JESUS SEES THEM

 I Peter 5:2  “Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve [3] not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

 

Have you learned to love your calling as a teacher? Have you chosen to praise God for the opportunity to be an overseer of his valuable possession (the children)? When you see students through God's eyes, you will never be the same teacher you were before. Each child is precious to Him; every student is a unique individual; valuable potential is tucked inside them; and God rejoices over them with joy (Zephaniah 3:17).

 

Think of yourself as being the jeweler assigned to shape precious diamonds still in the rough but destined to become the property of royalty. Each negative trait observed in the classroom is a positive trait not yet under the control of the Holy Spirit. A talker may be a future spokesperson, pastor, or teacher for the Kingdom of God. The student, who always wants to know why, may become an inventor, a teacher, or a prophet who proclaims truth to the nations. The meticulous, slower working child may become a financial manager, a designer or creator of new ideas or gadgets. The wiggly student may be the untiring evangelist that carries the Word of God across the nations, or the worker who maintains the church property. The overly sensitive student may be a future caregiver or counselor in your community. The class clown may be an entertainer, a youth pastor, or an encourager in the body of Christ. As you work with them this year, you may catch a dull spark of something great to come. Teachers must not stifle these natural traits, but rather train them (shape them) in the way that they should go (Proverbs 22:6). All of these traits can be positive strengths used for good and not bad. Help your students to discover these truths.

 

You can lead your little flock closer to becoming the diamonds they were designed to be through instruction and demonstration. Unconditional love, consistent training, and regular encouragement can polish rough edges quickly and you will begin to see glimpses of light sparkling through the “diamond in the making.”

 

DEAR GOD, OPEN MY EYES AND LET ME SEE YOUR GIFTS IN MY STUDENTS. GIVE ME WISDOM AND DIRECTION FOR TRAINING EACH INDIVIDUAL IN THE "PATH THAT THEY SHOULD GO.” TEACH ME TO TRAIN MY STUDENTS UNSELFISHLY AND CONSISTENTLY FOR YOUR GLORY.

 

Teacher Devotion for the Week of February 7, 2010

TEACH ME HOW TO HANDLE IRATE PARENTS

Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

 

    Unfortunately, parents sometimes become angry and attacking toward teachers.  Should this happen to you, keep this in mind.  Students usually slant reports in their favor, and, often the parents are responding to inaccurate information.  Assume that there is a misunderstanding.  This assumption will allow you deal with the conflict correctly.

 

    Should a parent storm into your classroom during class, you need to say, "Excuse me.  Let's talk outside."  Then, step into the hallway.  If the parent does not quiet down, begin walking toward the principal's office.  Let the parent know that this is a bad time, but that you will be glad to make an appointment.  You must not allow him to attack you before the children.  Remain calm and in control.  Do not try to defend yourself.  Simply explain that this is not the best time to talk.  Do not go ahead and have the conference with the parent.  Leave the parent at the office for the purpose of making an appointment and return to your class.

 

    During a parents conference, be determined to remain calm. Anger belittles your position and takes away your control.  Anytime a parent forcefully and loudly expresses their anger toward you, you will be tempted to answer them with the same tone and same force.  However, as a professional, you should answer calmly, quietly, and professionally.  You might say something like, "I see that you are upset, and we do need to discuss this matter.  However, I trust that we can handle this calmly since we both want what is best for your child."

 

    The Scriptures teaches us that a "soft answer" turns away wrath.  The only way you can give a "soft answer" after a verbal attack, especially an attack that is inaccurate and personally offensive, is to be a walking dead man.  That is  a person who has learned to be crucified with Christ and  is willing to allow the Spirit of God to respond rather than your human nature.

 

    It helps to ASSUME that there has been a misunderstanding.  LISTEN to the parent's complaint and try to discern what the problem is.  When you do speak, instead of defending yourself, first SUMMARIZE their complaint and ask them if you understood them right.  Here's an example:  "Mr. Smith, I understand that you feel that I am picking on your child by giving him a detention for something he didn't do.”  You have just CHECKED his message--the father now knows that you heard his complaint.  His emotions can come under control due to your soft answer, and he will be prepared to hear your explanation.  Your soft tone will also make it obvious how loud and harsh his own tone is.  If you were wrong, be quick to apologize.  If not, give more explanation regarding the situation to help him understand your response.

 
    Should the father refuse to calm down, you should stand and say something like this, "Mr. Smith, perhaps we need to speak to the principal regarding this matter.  Let's see if he is in the office."  This is not a request for his permission, but a statement of your decision.  Be assertive by walking toward the office and discontinuing the conversation. Do not continue a conference that has become unproductive or volatile.

Dear God, I need wisdom for times like these.  Teach me to be like you, to think your thoughts, to speak your words.  Help me learn to speak softly in times of conflict.


Teacher Devotion for the Week of January 31, 2010

LET ME MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ATMOSPHERE
 IN MY CLASSROOM

 

Proverbs 29:2 When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.

 

The teacher determines the classroom atmosphere.  If your class is unhappy and full of strife the first place you must check for error is in yourself.  If you lead righteously, your students will rejoice that you are their teacher, but if you are unjust and moody and fail to show the love of Christ daily, your students will not enjoy your class.  You are not to be self-seeking or self-serving.  Jesus laid down his life for his followers.  He spent his time teaching, giving, healing, and serving mankind.

 

Teachers often create their own discipline problems through inconsistent discipline and a lack of routine in the classroom.  Children follow better when the rules are clear, concise and consistently enforced.  Mood swings confuse students.  All of us have bad days, but, as professionals, we do not have the luxury of allowing our moods to rule our behavior.  If you (the teacher) caused the laughter in the classroom, do not punish the student who can’t pull himself back together as fast as you would like.  Instead, allow him to get a drink or separate from the group long enough to regain control. Teach him the importance of learning when to play and when to get back to work.

 

Smile.  Be friendly.  Be personable.  Be interesting.  Have some excitement about your lesson.  Be professional.  All of these traits will help create a positive atmosphere.  Students do not need you to be their second mom or big brother or best friend.  What they want and need is a leader—a teacher who can connect new information to what they already know, to make the lesson relevant to their lives, and to offer a safe place to study and learn where they don’t have to fear being bullied or embarrassed—by classmates or by the teacher.

 

DEAR GOD, GIVE ME THE GRACE TO FACE MYSELF AND TO SEE THE TRUTH ABOUT MY SHORTCOMINGS AND MY WRONG ATTITUDES.  GIVE ME THE COURAGE TO CHANGE THE AREAS THAT ARE OUT OF ORDER.  MAY I ALWAYS WALK IN SUBMISSION TO YOUR WILL AND PURPOSES.  BUILD CONSISTENCY AND A PLEASANT ATTITUDE IN MY DAILY WALK. GIVE ME A LOVING HEART FOR ALL OF MY STUDENTS.

Teacher Devotion for the Week of January 24, 2010


TEACH THEM TO BE WILLING

Isaiah 1:19 “If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land;”

 

His teacher said, “Johnny, I must insist that you put away your art tools and come into the reading circle.”  (Can you feel Johnny’s inner struggle?  He’s obviously not finished with his project.)  Finally, kicking his chair and mumbling under his breath, Johnny takes his seat in the reading circle.  He obeys but his heart is not willing. 

 

Teachers see this scenario several times a week.  Obedience is not easy.  Willing obedience is even more difficult. 

 

In Psalms 51, David prays a prayer of repentance asking for a clean heart and a renewed spirit. He wrote,  “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me” (Psalms 51:12).  Why does David ask for a willing spirit?  He knows it will sustain him.  He is asking God to protect him from stubborn self-will that leads to rebellion.  He wants to follow willingly with a joyful heart rather than grudgingly obeying because of duty.  David knows that God has the sustaining power to keep his heart pliable and teachable through conflicts.  Through tough experiences, he has learned that the Spirit of God is the only one that can change a rebel into a follower.

 

Did you fully grasp that last statement?  Only God can change a rebel into a follower!  A follower is more than someone who obeys the rules or does what he is asked.   He takes instruction into his heart, changes his path, and chooses to become like his teacher (Luke 6:42). 

 

Don’t forget to address heart issues when you train your students.  What’s going on in the inside of the child is more important than what shows in the outward behavior.  Teach your students the value of “willing” obedience.  Isaiah 1:19 and Psalms 51:12 tell us that a willing heart brings joy, sustains life, and allows you to have the “best” in life.  We must be willing to become willing.  By giving up our stubbornness--by taking a deep breath and letting go of “our way”--we submit our hearts to God.  When we submit, God can give us the willing heart that leads us to obedient actions.   

 

You cannot make your students willingly obey.  Only God can deal with heart issues.  However, you can appeal to them and instruct them in the way of a “willing heart”.  They need to understand what is happening in their own heart.  The more they gain understanding on how to deal with their own stubbornness, the sooner they will submit to your leadership.  This will help them find contentment and success.

DEAR GOD, GIVE ME A WILLING HEART TO FOLLOW YOU AND YOUR PRECEPTS.  CREATE A PURER OBEDIENCE IN MY OWN LIFE AS I COMMIT TO TEACH MY STUDENTS WILLING OBEDIENCE.  EVEN AS JESUS PRAYED IN THE GARDEN OF GESTHAMANE, I PRAY, “NOT MY WILL, BUT YOURS. . .” (LUKE 22:42)


Teacher Devotion for the Week of January 17, 2010

I NEED TO KNOW WHY I AM HERE

 

 Ephesians 4:1 I,  . . . As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. [2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

 

There may be days when you question your choice of the teaching profession.  Sometimes teachers feel that teaching is the most thankless, frustrating, self-sacrificing job there is on the face of the Earth.  We may even ask ourselves this question, "What did I do to deserve this?"

 

Jesus said, "I have chosen you; you are not your own."  You were created and designed by God to fulfill a purpose--God's'calling'.  The calling God places

 
            © 2002-2009 Elderine Wyrick

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