ABC's and 1-2-3's

The starting of the school year seems like a gift of a second chance to begin a new year.  Whether it’s first grade, junior high, high school, college, or the world of education after graduation, we’re all still in the process of learning and growing.

So as a new school year begins:

* Trust in the LORD and seek his ways.

* Choose your mentors and friends wisely.  You tend to become like those you are around the most.

* Be quick to listen.

* Think before you speak.

* Your words, responses, and tone of voice make a difference.

* Manners and respect still matter.

* Clean up your own messes.

* Be willing to go above and beyond what is expected.

* Seek out those who need a friend or help.

* Choose to do what is right, even if no one is looking.

* Express gratitude and appreciation.

* Mistakes don’t define you.  What you do about them could.

* You are investing in your future.  Make it count.

* Be strong and courageous.

* Don’t ever give up.

* And whatever you do, whether it’s doing chores, studying, taking a test, participating in a sports event, practicing a musical instrument, riding the bus, or visiting in the hallway, do it all for the glory of God.

Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

Matthew 22:37-39

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

     and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to him,

     and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart

     be pleasing in your sight,

     LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Psalm 19:14

“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

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Matthew 6:33

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31