We hate to admit it, but the first years we taught, we probably tried to make our classrooms a carbon copy of what we experienced in school. Following the same regimented routine we remember, we set out to teach our students with standards and techniques meant for a classroom 10 to 20 years ago. Thankfully, God helps us to discover a more robust way to teach our school lessons! Our students likely have become happier in their studies as a result of our adapting to the Lord's direction.

Following the traditions he had learned, the apostle Paul also had to change his thinking toward the new believers of the early church. As a devout Hebrew and learned scholar of the law, he saw Christians as a threat to the foundations of his faith. Believing he was preserving the true worship of God, Paul zealously pursued these new believers to eradicate them. Hundreds of men, women, and children died as a result of his actions until he saw the light and encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus.

Years later, Paul confessed his mistake in 1 Timothy 1:12-13 when he said, "And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief."

What about you? Is your faith in Jesus Christ based simply on following the empty traditions you learned, or do you truly know the One who uniquely created you? Jesus loves you and wants to have an intimate, dynamic relationship with you, so you can experience not only the forgiveness of your sins, but also the abundant life He has promised (John 10:10). Rely on Him and not your own understanding.

Why not ask the Holy Spirit show you the best way to teach your students?