4 Ways We Can Glorify God This School Year
The new school year is about to start! Are you excited? Or are you hanging onto summer with all you have?
As you enter a new school year, I encourage you to remember the truth of 1 Corinthians 10:31. It says, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Every day, we have opportunities to shed His light on those around us: classmates, teammates, teachers, coaches, and family.
Maybe you're thinking: but I'm only a teen girl, what impact could I possibly have? Well, my friend, a HUGE impact! 1 Timothy 4:12 tells us to "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. It doesn't matter how young you are, what you're good at, or what you look like. God wants to use YOU. And yes, even you can have an impact for the kingdom.
So, what does it look like to glorify Him in all you do as the school year begins? Here are four areas we can do so!
IN THE CLASSROOM
Do your best. God doesn't ask for perfection, but rather that you work hard, turn in assignments on time, respect your teachers and remember your identity is in Him. Colossians 3:23 calls us to "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men..."
Because of Christ's finished work on the Cross, we should be honest with our work by not cheating, lying, or cutting corners on assignments. Remember that our honesty and hard work should encourage those around us!
ON THE FIELD
Whether playing a game or running the course, your words and actions should reflect Christ's. Don't yell hurtful words to the referees, teammates, or opposing players; respect a coach's or referees' decision and play your best.
When a play doesn't go your way, extend grace to yourself and your teammates. When you lose in the last few seconds, encourage your teammates, and talk about how to improve for the next game. Point out what others did well, rather than solely focusing on the negative.
Your identity is not rooted in the sport you play (or any other activity you are involved in). Competition is fun, and you're allowed to enjoy playing the game, but it should not be more significant to you than your identity in Jesus.
IN THE HALLWAY, LUNCHROOM, OR LOCKER ROOM
The few minutes in the hallway, at the lunch table, or getting ready for practice in the locker room may feel insignificant, but they can have an eternal impact. Your time spent in these spaces often involves conversations about life, an upcoming test, or what's going on at home. Be wise with your conversations: what you share and how you share it.
Maybe you need to step away from a conversation filled with gossip or hurtful words (Eph. 4:29). Perhaps you need to shed scriptural light on an issue, for it is God's truth (John 17:17)! Or maybe you need to encourage a friend going through a rough time (2 Cor. 1:3-4). Regardless of your circumstances, lead your conversations with grace and land with Biblical truth as Colossians 4:5-6 says: "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
IN THE HOME
The Bible is clear: we are to honor our mother and father (Deut. 5:16, Eph. Matt. 19:19), but what does that even mean?
Respect their decisions. Don't continue begging when they respond with a firm no. When your parents ask something of you, do it with a cheerful heart.
I know chores aren't super fun, but they are a part of life! When your mom needs help with the dishes or dad asks you to take out the trash, respectfully say yes and get the job done. Most chores don't take a ton of time. Consider taking the initiative before your parents ask for help: they will feel loved by the gesture!
Also, we must love our neighbors as ourselves, including our siblings. I get it. Siblings can sometimes be challenging, but we're called to love them as Christ has loved us (Eph. 5:2). Be kind and gentle, and use gracious words. You may find out you enjoy spending time with them and they can be great friends!
(Please note: while no one is exempt from honoring their mother and father, please talk to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, coach, student pastor, or a friend's parent, if you are in a situation that puts you or others in your home at harm.)
CONCLUSION
As you head back to your campus for the school year, remember 1 Corinthians 10:31. Do everything this school year for the glory of God because of His finished work on the Cross. It doesn't matter if you're a freshman or a senior; you can share the good news of the Gospel of Christ wherever you go!
Hannah Fatheree resides in Knoxville, TN with her husband Taylor and works as an event planner. In her free time, she enjoys hiking in the Smoky Mountains, training for marathons, or sipping on coffee with friends. Hannah is passionate about helping others find Biblical community and taking their next steps in their walk with Jesus. Connect with Hannah on her personal website hannahmfatheree.com or on Instagram @hannahmfatheree/@captivatingcommunity!