By Dannah Gresh, Founder of True Girl
If you're like me, the new school year always feels like a great big invitation to push the re-set button on spiritual disciplines. It's also a great time to help your daughter do that. At the same time, the frenzy of the school year pace can make it difficult to feed our faith. But this is exactly the time to press into spiritual disciplines. Otherwise they'll get squeezed right out of your schedule. So, buy yourselves a new prayer journal, start family devos, or register for an on-line mom+daughter Bible study, but dive into God's Word together this Fall.
In the mean time, cover your daughter with prayer and scripture. I've even collected a few appropriate verses for specific challenges your daughter will face in the coming weeks. You could handwrite them on post-it notes or text them to her; read them over her in the morning as a prayer or whisper them to her at bedtime as comfort. Here are seven of the best verses for back-to-school encouragement.
When she's feeling fearful about the new year:
This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
When she's struggling with motivation and diligence:
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
I Corinthians 10:31
When she's feeling stressed about a test:
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
Philippians 4:6
When she's facing a mean girl:
But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you.
Luke 6:27, 28
When she's feeling dumb:
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
James 1:5
When she's left out or doesn't make the team:
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28
When she's overwhelmed by homework:
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Our True Girl theme verse:
"So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31,32
Mom, the best way to teach your daughter to live like an authentic True Girl is to live like an authentic True Woman. And to do that, you've got to get your life lined up with the Truth of the Bible. Listen to Dannah Gresh every weekday on Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth's Revive Our Hearts podcast. The program features biblical teaching, interviews that offer godly advice, and other opportunities to abide in God's Word.
