Our Teacher/Student Relationship

For his God instructs and teaches him properly. Isaiah 28:26

It touches my heart to know that the God of the universe, the Creator of everything, is the very One who teaches me. He is my Tutor. What kind of teacher is He? A couple years ago I would have said He was harsh, demanding, unrealistic, impatient, and critical. To sit in His classroom was uncomfortable to say the least. But when I began to see His true character the whole scene changed.

Now I would say He is loving and extremely patient. He is thorough and does not hesitate to repeat a lesson until I actually have it. He knows me intimately so is aware of my individual learning style. He knows my past as well as my future and already has each day of instruction planned. His desire is to have my undivided attention and notices when that is not the case.

There are times when my heart is divided, my love for learning is dulled, and my lack of motivation is apparent. But He remains the same. He knows when the light bulb has come on for me and rejoices to see it! To see His look of approval and hear His words of pleasure are such great rewards.

And yet, I know there are times I grieve Him. Times when, although He loves me, He does not approve of my actions or attitudes. Times when I fail to do my assignments. Times when I do poorly on tests. Times when I am not even close to an ideal student. Times when discipline becomes part of the process. All is done in an effort to reintroduce me to a hunger for learning and a thirst for Himself.

I am learning it is okay to go to God and admit what is really in my heart. When I lack motivation I am free to ask Him to put that in me. When I lack love for others I am free to ask Him to give me His heart. In other words, whatever I am in need of, I can take it to Him, admit it, and ask for His filling in that area. This is a new truth and new experience for me in this new year.

Father, I am present in Your classroom throughout my life. May I be receptive to ALL You teach me. Amen