08/31/2026
IT'S BACK TO SCHOOL TIME!
As the month of August comes to a close and the new school year has commenced, it’s back to reality. Back-to-school checklists have been completed. Sleeping scheduled are arranged. A more structured daily routine is now adopted.
So, along with textbooks, pens, pencils, and paper, here are six things all students — and for that matter, every one of us — need to make sure are in our backpack before we head out the door. While a textbook or a pen can be borrowed, these are things that can’t be borrowed; they must developed within yourself.
Honesty (I Peter 3:10-12): This is something you need if you’re going to kindergarten, college, or back to the office tomorrow morning. It’s about your character, integrity, speaking the truth, and living the truth. Be consistent in your behavior. There’s a temptation to wear a mask — to live one way at home, another way at school or work, and another way around brethren. Remember that others are watching your conduct (I Timothy 4:15). Be an example.
Salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16): People see us. They notice us. And when we go out into the world, we must invite them to look at Jesus through us. At work or at school, we are around a lot of ungodly people who do not know God nor have a concern for God. Be evangelistic. Let your light shine. Help them find Jesus. That’s your most important mission.
Steadfastness (I Corinthians 15:58): To be steadfast means to be firm and unwavering. Paul always abounded in the way of the Lord. He kept taking punches from the world — just read II Corinthians 11 — and every time he got knocked down, he got right back up. At school, you’ll face a lot of punches: peer pressure, bullying, evolution, drugs, alcohol, and other temptations. Remember, you’re not alone (Hebrews 13:5). We serve a God who knows. We serve a God who loves. We serve a God who cares (I Peter 5:7). We’re not just a number. We have purpose and meaning in life.
Speech: As one gets older, the temptation to use profanity only increases. When we use profanity or the name of God and Jesus in vain, it negates our Christian example. It’s not how a Christian should talk. Jesus says in Matthew 15:10-20 that the problem is really the heart. What comes out of my mouth is what pours out of my heart. What do our words reveal about us? Be an example in your speech (Colossians 4:6). Use your tongue for good. Glorify God with your speech. We are responsible for how we communicate.
Faith: Your faith is your unshakeable belief and conviction in God, His Word, and the Bible. Your faith will be tested because we live in a “whatever” generation — whatever you want to accept, believe, and feel. Don’t cave into the spirit of doubt. Study your faith. Exercise your faith. Know your faith. Hold onto your faith. Be an example in your faith. And share your faith.
Purity: Our bodies are an “instrument of righteousness to God” (Romans 6:13). We can choose to use our bodies for righteousness or unrighteousness. There’s an incredible temptation to discard purity and fill our minds and lives with impure thoughts and actions. Flee those desires (I Corinthians 6:18-20). Strive to be pure for our Father in heaven. Hold up the sanctity of purity and honor.
I hope every student has a great school year. I hope it is a memorable year. Remember who you are (I Timothy 6:11). While others are chasing after money, approval, wealth, power, and fame, Paul tells Timothy to be different — “O man of God.” Timothy, this is your identity. Young people — and old, alike — this is our identity.
