James 3:1-5
[1] Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. [2] For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. [3] If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. [4] Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. [5] So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
Head: What influence does a teacher have on those whom they teach? (Not only school teachers, but anyone who teaches)
Heart: If you're ever in a role to teach someone, what kind of a heart do you think you should have towards God?
Head: How you can pray for your current and past teachers? (Both at school and at church)
Words and influence must come with responsibility, for words are powerful, with the potential to both build up an break down. God holds people who teach others to a high standard, because these people have entrusted themselves into the teacher's guidance.
This means, that if you want to teach someone, take the responsibility seriously. You have a lot of potential to build someone's life. We are not perfect, and so we should take seriously that we can even unintentionally influence someone in a negative way.
So then, what are we to do?? None of us are perfect! For those who are called to teach, how should we proceed? We should depend on the one who is perfect, Jesus Christ. Abide in Him and ask the Holy Spirit to be with you in every teaching situation. If you ever feel like you have made a mistake, do what you can to make it right, but depend on Him to fully make it right.
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
(Matt. 19:26)
>> Go to YG Seniors Devotions Main Page
Devotional Guide:
1) Pray for understanding in your mind, for trust in your heart, and for powerful obedience in your daily living.
2) Read the passage and mark anything that blesses you, challenges you, or raises a question.
3) Reflect on the passage. What's God saying about Himself? What's God saying about you?
4) Pray in response to what God puts on your heart through the Word.