Strengths and struggles of a new school year
Written by Haley Earley, manager of donor offers at The Salvation Army Northern Division
As summer fades to fall, students are preparing to head back to school. Well, some are; others may be cherishing those last free days of running barefoot through the yard and losing track of time. Nevertheless, a new school year is upon us and within the walls of classrooms, friendships will be born, knowledge attained, and passions discovered.
Yet at the same time, there are often struggles.
Parents may not have the resources to purchase school supplies or new clothing. Youth may dread returning to a place where they have been picked on, lack friend groups, or don’t understand the homework. Even teachers may lack the strength to care for the hundreds of students who will walk into the building on the first day of school.
The youth of today are the workers of tomorrow, so let us turn to prayer. As we lift up these students, think of your community’s youth and meditate on any specific needs you may see or have experienced yourself.
Heavenly Father, I come to you with a grateful heart for the youth that fill this community with vibrancy and laughter. As they prepare to return to school, please be with them. Guide their minds to receive Your knowledge and to actively participate in the classroom. Shape their hearts to offer kindness and generosity to others and to safeguard against bullying. Help each child to learn of their gifts and to be encouraged in their passions. And, Lord, fortify the parents and teachers as they build up our youth. Amen.
Whether or not you have children or grandchildren, we have all be through the early days of a new school year. Even still, no matter your age and wisdom, we all have things to learn. As Philippians 4:9 reminds us, “The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
May we all continue learning, praying, and practicing God’s will for our lives.
Please join The Salvation Army by volunteering or making a donation to support your local community.