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One thing new homeschoolers often ask me is, “Can I do this?” My resounding answer is always, “Yes! Yes, you can!” If we follow God (like Abraham did) and trust that He is leading us on the right path (like Abraham did), we can do this — like Abraham did!
God is Able to Do This
Abraham had no children, yet God kept telling him He would make a great nation out of him (Gen. 18:18-19). Many homeschool moms, myself included, are not gifted teachers, yet we somehow manage to educate our children. I’ve never felt “called” to homeschool. I know there are many families out there who will tell you how they didn’t want to homeschool but felt the Lord leading them to do it. Or maybe they wanted to, but their spouse didn’t, and God encouraged them by bringing other homeschoolers into their life to sway the spouse. If you fall into either of those categories, that’s great. Or maybe, like me, you don’t.
My reasons for homeschooling, in the beginning, were purely selfish: I wasn’t ready to be separated from my children. It wasn’t until I had been homeschooling for quite a few years (and I was ready to be away from my children) that I finally realized the Lord was leading me to continue homeschooling. Yes, that big, yellow bus was looking very tempting at one point of this journey. But, I didn’t have a peace about it. I knew God was able to help me continue to homeschool. I knew He had a plan, and I wanted to obey.
Obedience is the Key Factor
God told Abraham to ‘go.’ So, Abraham packed up and left his home with no idea of where he was going or how it would turn out. He completely trusted God for the outcome. He was obedient. (Gen. 12:4)
God is telling us to ‘teach.’ Whether you’ve always homeschooled (like me), or if you’ve recently pulled your children from public school, you really have no idea how this adventure will turn out. You have hopes and dreams, but you really don’t know where exactly God is leading. That’s okay! We just need to be obedient and teach our children.
There Will Be Rough Spots
Abraham hit a few rough spots along the way. His nephew Lot, his desire to have an heir, family relationships–he was swayed by others at times (Gen 16:2) and tried to “help” God with His plan. But none of these rough spots couldn’t be smoothed over by God.
We often have rough spots as well: new babies, elderly or sick relatives, opposition from friends/family. And while you may be tempted to listen to the naysayers, don’t! Just like God helped Abraham through the rough spots in his life, God will get you through whatever is happening in your life, too. Stay on track. Keep teaching your children if that’s His leading. Make adjustments to your life if needed, but remember: with God, you can do this!
Sacrifices Must Be Made
Abraham made sacrifices. He left his home and set off on an adventure to follow God. How many friends did he leave behind? How many family members? But, God blessed him with a better home, a good reputation, and a huge family. He understood the need for obedience and making sacrifices–even his beloved son (Gen. 22:3)–so that God could bless him.
Sometimes we, as mothers, must be willing to sacrifice as we follow God’s plan for our homeschool. You may have given up a career or good paying job, which caused you to sacrifice your standard of living (one income vs. two). You might have sacrificed friends or even your home if you had to relocate for your husband’s job. But, following God on this homeschool journey is worth it! What we cherish and feel is a huge sacrifice to give up, may be nothing compared to what God has in store for us.
There Will Be Benefits
Abraham wanted an heir. Not only did God grant his desire, but He blessed him with more children and grandchildren. His family became a nation, and future generations spoke highly of him (Rom. 4:3). Can you imagine the joy this man felt, watching his children grow? I know you can!
Like Abraham, we get to watch our children grow, too. You may not have as many children as other homeschool families (or you may have more!), but being able to spend each day with them, teaching and learning–that is the greatest benefit of homeschooling. We want what’s best for our children, just like Abraham (Gen. 24:3), and that desire will shape how we teach if we turn it over to God each day.
If Abraham Can Follow God, You Can, Too!
Homeschooling is not always easy. There will be days of tears and frustration for both you and your children. When that happens, take a break. Remind yourself that you are being obedient to God on this journey. Understand that there will be rough spots and you will need to make sacrifices. And keep in mind that the benefits far outweigh the alternatives.
Can you do this?
Yes, you CAN homeschool!
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