Here’s Comes August

Now only a few weeks away, the month of August is always an exciting one in the Cox home. We celebrate three birthdays, my two girls and my husband, and the new school year begins. This year our baby girl starts big kid school, the last run of kindergarten for our brood. Cue the tears. We also have a third grader and a seasoned middle schooler who is starting seventh grade. Our children spend the bulk of their day at school, learning new material and mastering new skills. They also face real challenges, from bullies to academic pressures to drama with friends and trying to fit in.

Effectively preparing our children for the upcoming school year

As parents, we want our babies to start the year off strong, armed with self-assuredness and confident in their abilities. So, how do we prepare our children for the new school year? We cover them in scripture through the word of God imprinted upon their hearts. When trouble arises, they can retrieve his word immediately, finding peace and comfort knowing that God is always with them even when their parents cannot be.

SCRIPTURES FOR OUR CHILDREN

God has extraordinary purpose and plan for your life

God uniquely designed each of us in His own image and with a specific purpose in mind. There is only one you and will never be another you; you are God’s masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10 NLT). Never forget that you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalms 134:14 NIV) born to do amazing things.

Song of Songs 4:1 (NLT) – You are beautiful, my darling, beautiful beyond words.

Isaiah 62:3 (NLT) – The LORD will hold you in his hand for all to see, a splendid crown in the hand of God.

1 Corinthians 9:26 (NLT) – I run with purpose in every step.

Philippians 4:13 (NLT) – I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.

Matthew 5:14 (NLT) – You are the light of the world – like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.

Always work hard and do your best for this honors God

While in school, your primary job as a student is to do the work, both the easy work and the hard work. Always try your best. Ask questions when you need help. Don’t ever be afraid to fail for God is always with you. But don’t cheat.

Titus 2:7 (NLT) – And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind.

Proverbs 12:4 (NLT) – Work hard and become a leader

Proverbs 21:5 (NLT) – Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.

Galatians 6:9 (NLT) – So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time, we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Romans 12:11 (NLT) – Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the LORD enthusiastically.

Treat others with kindness through your words and your actions.

Like adults, kids can have bad days, too. You might lose your temper and snap on others out of frustration, but we don’t ever want to hurt anyone’s feelings intentionally. Be kind to all, even when they aren’t kind back. And, always choose love.

Colossians 3:14 (NLT) – Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.

Proverbs 16:24 (NLT) – Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Romans 12:18 (NLT) – Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

Ephesians 4:32 (NLT) – Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Proverbs 10:12 (ICB) – Hatred stirs up trouble. But love forgives all wrongs.

My child, go and shine your beautiful light in the world. Be strong and courageous. You are going to have an amazing school year!