It’s already time for another school year.  I am always amazed at how fast summers seem to pass.  Just when a rhythm sets in, your whole schedule must change again.

I have one in high school and one in college.  My desire for them is what I hope is your desire for yours.  In fact, may I share three things that I want for our kids?

“Be a good student.”

We are blessed to have an educational system that can prepare our children for the future.  Of course, nothing is perfect, and there are always ways that we can improve.  However, most of the world does not have anything like we have.

When you are young, you do not always see the advantages of school; but we should.  And we should help our kids understand how important it is to work with the system.

I am reminded that Proverbs 1:8-9 says, “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and don’t reject your mother’s teaching, for they will be a garland of favor on your head and pendants around your neck.”  And 1 Peter 2:13 says, “Submit to every human authority because of the Lord.”

Our children need to understand that authorities can help or discipline us.  We can ask for trouble or seek rewards.  I think you know what we should do.

“Don’t follow the crowd in the wrong direction.”

I would have my head in the sand if I did not realize the pressures that our children face.  They are bombarded by a culture that is bent on selfishness, division, and sin.  No matter how much time we can spend with them, they spend a lot of their days with people who are not looking out for their best interests.

We need to remind them of some truths.  Proverbs 1:10 states: “My son, if sinners entice you, don’t be persuaded.”  1 Corinthians 15:33 states: “Do not be deceived, ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’”

It is not only OK to keep an eye on our children.  It is vital that we do.

“Make sure that Jesus comes first.”

If you are a Christian, you know this.  If you are not, I encourage you to seek Him.

1 Peter 3:15 reminds us of the focus we should have: “in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”

School is important, but our most important education is grounded in Jesus.  He is the only one who can make you a better person and give you hope.  Our children desperately need to know that.

Honestly, we all need to know that.  So, let me encourage you to not only help your children start the school year in the right way.  Let us all start anew in making the rest of our life aimed toward the right way.