A is for Abraham: Obedience in the Everyday of Homeschooling

One of the first questions new homeschoolers often ask is, “Can I really do this?” My answer is always an enthusiastic, “Yes! Yes, you can!” Not because we as moms are perfectly equipped, but because the God who called us is faithful.

When we look at Abraham’s life, we see a man who didn’t have all the answers, didn’t know exactly where God was leading, and often felt inadequate. Yet he trusted and obeyed. His story gives us encouragement to do the same in our homeschool journey.

God is Able to Do This

Abraham had no children, yet God promised that nations would come from him (Genesis 18:18–19). From a human perspective, that seemed impossible. But God is able to do what we cannot.

Homeschooling moms often feel the same tension. Many of us don’t have teaching degrees or “perfect patience.” We face questions like:

• Am I smart enough to teach algebra?
• Will my child learn what they need?
• What if I fail them?

And yet, God provides. He equips us day by day, just as He did for Abraham.

Maybe you were certain from the beginning that homeschooling was your calling. Or maybe, like me, you didn’t start out feeling called at all. My early reasons were simple—I wasn’t ready to be separated from my kids. But over time, I realized homeschooling wasn’t just my choice; it was God’s leading. Even in seasons when the big yellow bus looked tempting, His peace kept me on this path.

The truth is this: if God has led you to homeschool, He is able to sustain you through it.

Obedience is the Key Factor

When God told Abraham to go, he went—even though he had no idea where the road would lead (Genesis 12:4). His obedience was the key to seeing God’s promises unfold.

Homeschooling is much the same. Whether you’ve been doing it for years or you just recently brought your children home, you don’t know exactly how it will turn out. You have hopes and dreams for your kids, but the details are in God’s hands.

Our role is to obey His leading. He tells us to teach, to disciple, to train up our children in His ways. The outcome belongs to Him.

There Will Be Rough Spots

Abraham’s journey wasn’t smooth. He wrestled with doubt, strained family relationships, and even tried to “help” God’s plan along (Genesis 16:2). Yet each misstep became an opportunity for God’s grace to shine.

Homeschooling has its rough patches, too:

• Welcoming a new baby into the family.
• Caring for sick or aging relatives.
• Facing opposition from family and friends.
• Battling fatigue, doubt, or discouragement.

It’s tempting to give in to the naysayers or believe the lie that you can’t keep going. But God is faithful. Just as He guided Abraham, He will guide you. With Him, no rough spot is too great to overcome.

Sacrifices Must Be Made

Abraham left his home, his family, and his security to follow God. Later, he was even asked to lay his beloved son Isaac on the altar (Genesis 22:3). His obedience required sacrifice, but God rewarded his faith.

Homeschooling also involves sacrifice. For some families, it means giving up a second income. For others, it means fewer career opportunities, smaller homes, or a simpler lifestyle. You may also sacrifice free time, friendships, or personal goals.

But as Abraham’s life shows us, sacrifice in obedience to God always opens the door to blessings. What feels like loss often becomes gain when surrendered to Him.

There Will Be Benefits

Abraham longed for a child—and God not only gave him Isaac but blessed him with generations beyond what he could imagine (Romans 4:3).

As homeschooling moms, we also experience unique blessings:

• Time together — daily opportunities to share life, learning, and laughter.
• Spiritual growth — discipleship moments that happen in the middle of math lessons or while baking cookies.
• Tailored education — the ability to nurture each child’s strengths and address their challenges.
• Lasting relationships — strong family bonds built on shared experiences.

Homeschooling may be hard, but it also brings incredible joy. Watching your children grow—not only in academics, but in character and faith—is a blessing that far outweighs the sacrifices.

Final Thoughts

Homeschooling is a journey of faith, just like Abraham’s. There will be rough spots and sacrifices. There will be moments when the road feels long and the outcome uncertain. But there will also be incredible blessings—because the God who calls us is faithful.

So when doubt creeps in and you wonder, “Can I really do this?” remember Abraham. He didn’t have all the answers. He didn’t always get it right. But he trusted, obeyed, and saw God’s promises fulfilled.

And you can, too.

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