Dear Sister,

We're at the beginning of the school year, and I want you and our brothers to prepare yourselves to receive and retain the “JOY” of the Lord. Joy is one of God’s spiritual blessings that believers have in Christ Jesus. His “JOY” is far greater than the “joy” that comes from this world.  It is written,

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ, for he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.” (Ephesians 1:3).

Did you catch the whereabouts of these spiritual blessings? While there are individuals who denounce Christianity and some who walk away, please encourage yourself and our brothers to continue pressing into God, the Only true God, for every spiritual blessing needed in education. Our “research” is found in the scriptures.  Once you find what you’re looking for, pray and ask our Teacher to grant you those spiritual blessings throughout the school year. Embrace encouragement, faith, and hope when you discover your class sizes for this upcoming year.  Seek peace and strength when the District Office speaks at a level that doesn't match the classroom experience.  Take hold of His garment of praise when the spirit of heaviness shows up during that long stretch between August and Thanksgiving.

Sister, let's not underestimate the power of strategic prayer. Asking for His 'JOY' isn’t a naive request, but a purposeful prayer that can keep our spirits lifted when the demands of our roles become overwhelming. It's a prayer that aligns us with God's strength and grace, enabling us to face each day with confidence and joy.