God's Report Card

We have come to that time of the year when parents rejoice and children weep.  It is back to school time.  It is a time of excitement and anxiety.  Many are looking forward to seeing friends again.  Guys are checking out the new girls and girls are peeping at the new guys.  You may be going to a new school, having to make new friends.  Perhaps you are worried about where you will fit in.  Maybe you are hoping that you will get the easy teachers.  Back to school is a tough time, but there is a word from the Lord in Daniel 1:17-21 that will help you have a good school year.

• Don’t forget who you are.  Never forget that you are a child of God.  As a Christian, you have to be the light that shines in darkness. You are not supposed to fit in, because you are destined by God for greatness.  Greatness doesn’t fit in, it stands out.
• Realize that God picks up where you leave off.  God blessed the four young men in Daniel 1 with more knowledge and understanding than they already had.  God has blessed you with a mind to think.  If you want to do better in school, ask God to help you.  Whatever you need to know, God has the ability to bless you with the knowledge that you need.
• Take care of business.  Stop procrastinating.  Plan for projects, papers and tests.  Do your school work before you play, watch TV or get on the phone/computer.  Leave your phone in a room away from where you do your homework so that you aren’t tempted to check it every time it goes off.
• Choose your friends wisely.  Some youth are involved in illegal and suspect activities.  You are sorely mistaken if you think your friends won’t influence you.  Even if you are not doing what your friends are doing, you become guilty by association.  Surround yourself with the right people.  Your life will be the better for it and you will be on your way to having a successful school year.