LEAven Blog

Gratitude is in the heart of the Christian educator. To share perspective, Lutheran teaching is one of the most challenging and rewarding vocations, filled with days of faith, triumph, growth, and sometimes trials. Amid planning lessons, managing classrooms, and helping students succeed, it’s easy to become absorbed in daily demands and forget to pause and give thanks. But, as Christians, we are called to practice gratitude in all circumstances, trusting that God is with us in every aspect of our calling as educators.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”  

I Thess. 5:18

This verse is a beautiful reminder that gratitude is a choice we make daily. Here are some ways educators can practice thankfulness, drawing closer to God and enriching their classrooms with His love:

Thankful for the Calling to Teach

To be an educator is a calling. God places us in our roles for a reason, equipping us to serve and impact lives in profound ways. Teaching is a privilege that allows us to shape minds and hearts, and we are stewards of this responsibility.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”   Colossians 3:23

Let us be thankful for the opportunity to partner with God in this important work, knowing that He is guiding us in every lesson we teach and every student we inspire.

Thankful for the Students God Entrusts to Us

Every student we teach is a child of God, created uniquely with potential and purpose. By embracing an attitude of gratitude for each student, we recognize that every child, regardless of their strengths or challenges, is a gift. Some may come to us with a joyful spirit, while others may be struggling. Being thankful helps us see each one through God’s eyes and reminds us to approach them with patience and love.

“Do not to be anxious but to bring everything to God in prayer, trusting Him to fill our hearts with peace.”   Philippians 4:6-7

We pray for our students, thanking God for the opportunity to play a part in their lives and for the chance to be a source of encouragement, guidance, and to assist in developing faith formation.

Thankful for Fellow Educators and Support Staff

Teachers do not work alone. Colleagues, administrators, and support staff all play a part in creating a nurturing and effective learning environment.

“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.”   Ecclesiastes 4:9

Being thankful for the support and camaraderie of fellow educators helps us build a sense of community and shared purpose. By lifting each other up, we foster an atmosphere where God’s love can be felt throughout the school. This spirit of unity also models to students the importance of working together in harmony.

Thankful for the Gifts and Talents God Has Given Us

Each teacher brings unique skills and talents to the classroom, from a passion for a subject to the gift of encouragement, humor, or creativity. Gratitude for these gifts is essential, as it keeps us humble and focused on God as the source of all abilities.

“Use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.”   1 Peter 4:10

By thanking God for our strengths, we acknowledge that He is at work in us, and we ask Him to help us use these gifts to bless and uplift our students.

Thankful Even in Challenges and Difficult Days

Teaching isn’t always easy, and some days bring stress, exhaustion, and difficult moments. Yet, even in these times, we can find reasons to be thankful.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”   James 1:2-3

Through challenges, we grow in patience, resilience, and trust in God. By practicing gratitude, we shift our focus from the problems before us to the God who walks beside us, knowing that He is shaping us to be stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.

Thankful for God’s Presence and Guidance Every Day

Above all, we are thankful that God is with us every day in the classroom, guiding us and giving us strength. Through prayer, we can seek His wisdom and grace, knowing that we are never alone.

“The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”   Deuteronomy 31:8

This promise brings peace and reminds us that every day is an opportunity to lean on His love and guidance.

Embracing a Heart of Gratitude as Educators

Gratitude transforms our perspective, allowing us to see our work as Lutheran educators through a lens of faith and purpose. When we practice thankfulness, we draw closer to God, becoming more attuned to His presence and more capable of reflecting His love to our students and colleagues. In moments of joy and challenge alike, let us give thanks, knowing that our efforts have meaning, and that God’s hand is in every step of our journey as teachers. May our classrooms be places of grace, wisdom, and gratitude, bringing glory to God in all we do.

This Thanksgiving season and beyond, let us embrace a thankful heart, remembering that every lesson, every child, and every day is a gift from our Heavenly Father.