I will not be afraid

Psalm 118:6, “The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (NIV)

I love to teach and to see the light bulbs turn on in the minds of learners.  I also loved the predictable nature of the profession.  There are curriculum pacing guides, schedules, routines, procedures, clear expectations, and lesson plans.  Of course, the days are always full of teachable moments and one has to monitor and adjust, but the vision is clear.

So stepping out of the classroom was a real adventure for me. God opened up a door for me last year to expand my teaching beyond one classroom.  It has been a blessing and a exercise in faith.  Everyday is something different, gone are the routines and schedules.  I don't know whom I'm going to be serving from day to day.  The guidelines, procedures, and expectations that I had become so used to are often fluid.  I can no longer just close my door and focus on the learners before me. I have  deal with a diverse and complex set of personalities.  There is uncertainty and there is no fixed point of focus.  Or is there?

The scripture above brought such peace to my soul this morning.  I love my job, but it can be unsettling at times.  The comfort of the known is missing, but there is a truth that I can fix my heart and mind on.  God is with me!  

He is with me as I enter every school building.  He is with me in every conversation.  He is with me as I flow with the twist and turns of the trends of education.  He is with me when I feel alone  and He is with me when I am surrounded by friends.  He is with me and therefore I do not have to be afraid.  I can look at each day as an adventure with Him.  I can trust that regardless of the outcome I will be okay because He is with me.  Man  and their opinions and attitudes about me can’t harm me for He is with me.

Father thank You for being with me.  When things get shaky and dark help me to turn on the light of truth and keep my eyes on You.  In Jesus name. Amen.