Sometimes Bible teachers become worn out. They need renewal. Sometimes what they’re doing isn’t working any more. They need renewal. Sometimes Bible teachers have lost their joy and passion in teaching.
They need renewal of their confidence and conviction so they stay committed as they contemplate what God will do through them.
If they don’t find the renewal they need, they may give up and quit. If they stay, their hearts won’t be into it and they’ll just be going through the motions. And, their teaching will become less and less effective.
Finding the Renewal Needed to Restore the Joy and Passion in Teaching
When Bible teachers sense themselves spiraling down, there are some things they can do, as seen in this acrostic, to put themselves in a place ready for God to bring the needed renewal.
R – Remember & Rest
Remember who it is that brings the growth/change (1 Cor. 3:5-9) and rest in His grace and power to work in and through you rather than trying to do it on your own (Ps. 46:10).
E – Examine & Evaluate
Prayerfully examine what is happening to make you feel discouraged (Ps. 139:23-24) and evaluate to determine that which is of temporary versus that which is of eternal consequence (2 Cor. 4:16-18).
N – Nix & Nip
Nix the negative thoughts and sinful attitudes (Phil. 2:1-8; 4:8-9) and nip them from your heart and mind before they have opportunity to take root (2 Cor. 10:5).
E – Embrace & Envelop
Embrace the promises of God (Heb. 11:17-19) and envelop all you do in prayer and He will give you hope and peace (Ps. 55:22; Phil. 4:6-7; 1 Pet. 5:7).
W – Wait & Watch
Wait upon Lord (Isa. 40:31) and until that renewal comes, watch that you don’t get complacent or fall into the traps of the enemy (1 Pet. 5:8-10).
A – Acknowledge & Anticipate
Acknowledge that God’s ways are higher than your limited understanding (Isa. 55:9) and anticipate that He is working even when you don’t see how (1 Cor. 15:58; Gal. 6:9).
L – Look & Learn
Look at Jesus who endured great suffering for the greater good (Heb. 12:1-2) and you’ll find rest, as yoked with Him, you learn from Him (Matt. 11:29-30).
Teacher Devotional: Encouragers for Teachers of God’s Word