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Describe a recent time when you’ve been discouraged with a student’s progress. Have you witnessed a change in the student’s life, or are you still waiting for that change to occur?
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I have a student that I have been sharing the Gospel with for the past two years. Often times it feels like he is apathetic to God and does not really care whether or not he learns more about Him or has a relationship with Him. He and I connected on our love for sports and video games and have often talked about these things in length. He often shuts down or changes the subject when we discuss spiritual matters. The last few months of this past school year he started to show an interest in our Bible journaling we were doing in course. He on several occasions asked for help in understanding the passage we were covering. I would definitely not confidently say he has a relationship with God, however I am encouraged that he is at least no longer apathetic and is starting to ask questions
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I had a rough course this year. I had a lot of strong personalities, and a lot of selfish behaviors. I did my best to really praise the positive behavior when I would see it. I did many lessons on the attributes of God and how we need to be striving to be more like Christ. I did not see much change in the behavior at the end of the year, but I do know I tried my best to plant seeds. I will continue to pray for these students, and patiently wait for God to do the growing in them.
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There are definitely times that I have become discouraged that I cannot do more for my students. Especially those students who are forced to deal with really tough family situations. There is such a delicate balance between giving students Godly advice and not encroaching upon parental guidance or instruction that may seem a little wayward or off-target. I have noticed that providing my students with a safe place to share and supporting them with the truth of God’s word may not change their situation, but definitely changes the way in which they may view their situation.
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Some of the more discouraging moments for me have been when students have opened up about spiritual problems near the end of their time in my course. In some cases, the conversation has continued to some extent after graduation, but it can be difficult to accept that “still waiting” state — and the uncertaintly about the ultimate outcome.
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During my tenure as an educator, I have had students that have challenges both at school and at home. I often pray for them when they come to mind. I may never know if they made a decision for Christ, but have faith that God wiil continue to draw them to Himself.
