Earlier this week BJA students began the 2014-2015 school year with a clean slate. What happens to that slate throughout the year depends on various factors, but just as with the Magic Slate, nothing will occur automatically. Students that have a successful school year will be those who choose to take appropriate actions regardless of circumstances. At times, an appropriate action may be to seek help—whether it is needed academically, spiritually, or in other areas. A wise student understands that seeking assistance or advice from a parent, teacher, pastor, or friend is evidence of taking responsibility rather than a sign of weakness. Everyone will likely need help at some time during the year. At BJA there are many people willing and eager to encourage, explain, or listen.
A successful student will also seek opportunities to help others. Whether providing encouragement or doing something specific for a classmate, relative, or stranger, serving others is usually as beneficial to the helper as to the one being helped. However, the most important opportunity during the year will be the relationship a student develops with God. Truly successful students will have a closer bond with the Lord on the last day of the school year than they did on the first day.
The Genesis account of the life of Joseph describes a young man whose life slate was not always filled with good news. Nevertheless, Joseph knew that God had a purpose for his life, and through His leading, he was able see calamity turn into opportunities to grow in God’s favor and to serve Him by ministering to others. May the desire to grow in God’s favor be the goal of each student during this new school year.
This week all BJA students came to school with a clean slate. What is written throughout the year depends on what is made of the opportunities that come their way.