Discouragement ranks high in a list of issues among Bible teachers. When discouraged it’s difficult to give it our all. Before determining how to help teachers who battle discouragement, we must first identify what’s causing teachers to get discouraged or become disillusioned.
The Encouragers for Teachers of God’s Word resource provides devotionals covering twelve different issues teachers might face. This reproducible resource would be good to have on hand for teachers. You can distribute the entire resource or just the particular devotion that fits the need.
Battling Discouragement Because of Personal Issues
Sometimes a teacher’s discouragement spills over from personal issues, not directly related to teaching itself. Anxiety and stress can build up to the point that it taints all we do. If this is the case, perhaps leaders can help by coming alongside of them with the following:
prayer support
encouragement
counsel
practical assistance
referral when unable to help
If you’re a teacher, meditate on these verses:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)
Discouragement Related to Leadership
Sometimes teachers get discouraged because of what their leaders do or don’t do, such as:
- setting expectations that are too high or too low
- not providing needed resources and materials
- failing to express genuine appreciation
- overwhelming teachers by not guarding the teacher-to-student ratio
- not respecting their time constraints
- failing to provide overall support and helpful training
Leaders, do the opposite of what’s bringing the discouragement. God holds leaders accountable for how we watch over those He’s entrusted to us (1 Pet. 5:2-4).
If you’re a teacher discouraged by how you’re treated, try to focus on this objective:
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. (Col. 3:23-24)
Cause of Discouragement Related to Teaching Itself
Some teachers battle with discouragement directly related to the classroom, like …
struggles with classroom discipline issues
difficulty getting students to actively participate
etc.
Many of these issues can be resolved with some targeted and tailored training. If you’re a leader, after identifying the need, check out the list of training topics and resources on this site for possible help in that area.
If you’re a teacher who invests time into lesson preparation and gives it your all but still don’t see results, cling to God’s promises:
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Cor. 15:58)
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Gal. 6:9)