Second Starts

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." -Lamentations 3:22-23

Homeschooling isn't easy. Even though we may start out strong and desire to do our very best, we will still face opposition. It might come from family members, strangers in the market, our children, or even ourselves. We may be tempted to say, "God, I can't do this. This is too hard!" But we can't quit!

in Acts 12:25, John Mark started out strong, too, as he accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. Near the city of Pamphylia, however, the pressures of the trip became too great, and he turned around and headed back home to Jerusalem (see Acts 13:13). Perhaps it was the angry Jewish leaders trying to imprison the followers of Jesus, or the long days and short nights with little food and comfort. Whatever the reason, John Mark quit, and Paul had nothing good to say about him (see Acts 15:37-38). When Barnabas wanted to take him on their second missionary journey, a conflict arose and Paul "did not think it wise to take him" (verse 38).

Sometimes, God is gentler with us than Paul was with John Mark. He can remind us why we began homeschooling and confirm the burden He originally put on our hearts. He will give us another chance to begin again; to go on in His strength.

If you've ever failed at homeschooling or living the Christian life, God is waiting to help you start over. Just pray right now and ask Him for the help you need. Whether it's strength to keep homeschooling or strength to find victory over a particular sin, God wants to show you grace, mercy and love. He truly is the God of the second chance. "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him" (Psalm 103:13).

-From the Homeschool Mom's Bible; devotions by Janet Tatman; p. 533

Don't quit because it feels too hard. We are not intended to travel this homeschooling journey alone. God is with us and will give us all we need to continue; but we need to rely on His strength and not our own. He is faithful!