Pencils sharpened. New outfits laid out.  Lunches ready to go.

It’s that time of year again when children head back to school. Is it me or does anyone else feel both excited and nervous for this adventure?

“They’re going to have so much fun!” “Oh I hope they have a kind and understanding teacher.”  “They’ll be challenged and learn a great deal!” “I just wish they would make friends easily and not be subject to bullying.”

God helps me put my mind at ease with the reminder of the power of our tongue.  Using the words which flow forth from our mouths, we should:

PRAY- ask the Lord to provide direction and protection for your children, for clarity in their minds, strength in their bodies, to work hard, have a good attitude, for wisdom to distinguish right from wrong, and to shine brightly for His glory;

DECLARE- speak His Word over your children ie. Thank You Lord that my children are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), that they trust in you with all of their hearts (Proverbs 3:5), that they can do all things through You Who gives them strength (Philippians 4:13), that they are strong and courageous (Joshua 1:9), and that their minds will be kept in perfect peace (1 Timothy 1:9);

CHAT- engage in a daily conversation with your children about their day by asking what they learned, what they liked/disliked and who they interacted with, as well as discussing feelings about each of those topics;

DISCUSS- stay in contact with teachers about your child’s progress, concerns you may have and also, to thank them for their time and investment to educate our future generation.

What we say literally speaks volumes about the journey of our school year being a positive one.  “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life” (Proverbs 15:4).

Praying you and your children have an amazing school year filled with grace, favor, and joy!

~Joyce