Reading, writing and recharging our faith

A mother kneels down to hug her son; the son is wearing a backpack, suggesting that he is headed to school.

There’s something in the air. Parents and kids scurry through the retail aisles, checking supply lists, picking out notebooks, testing out backpacks, filling baskets with crayons, pencils and pens. College-bound students feel it, too, as they find the perfect décor for dorm rooms. Summer may be great fun, but nothing beats the energy and anticipation of back-to-school time! 

The enthusiasm that kids bring for these new beginnings is contagious, fueling grown-up nostalgia for the hopeful promise of a blank page. As students return to classrooms and meet new teachers and friends, now is a good time for Christians to recharge their commitment to a life of prayer and praise, refilling the joy and inspiration in their lives through spiritual renewal.

Grab your lunchbox, sharpen your pencils, and see which of these faith-focused suggestions inspire you.  

Inspired? Create and share by tagging @DaySpringCards.

Make new connections  

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20 NIV

As a follower of Christ, don’t forget that every connection is a chance to share God’s love and to uplift one another. Expand your connections within your church by joining a fellowship, ministry, book club, or Bible study.

And wherever you go, remember that meeting new people gives us an opportunity to embrace God’s gifts of companionship and fun.  

Shift your study of the Bible into high gear  

“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” Proverbs 1:5 NIV

In this season of new beginnings, open your Bible and re-discover the verses you love.  

Invite a new friend to partner with you in reading the Bible daily, asking God to keep the season’s excitement growing through the year. Or, if you haven’t tried Lectio Divina, spend time learning about this approach to slowing down and savoring the Word. 

Share your goodness  

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25 NIV 

Celebrate the season of beginnings by finding new ways to share your time and talent.  Spend time serving meals to those in need, visiting the homebound, or helping children read.

These are just a few ways to open our hearts to the people in our communities. Our lives become enriched and our spirits refreshed when we give to others. 

Express yourself  

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 NKJV

By expressing our faith through our gifts and talents, we bring new joy and beauty to our communities and world. Don’t get overwhelmed by the possibilities: start small with something that appeals to you.

Dust off your guitar and warm hearts with your music. Get your hands in the clay and create something useful or beautiful—or both. Channel God’s inspiration as you write a poem or story to share with others how He is working in your life. Dance, sing, draw or paint, sharing the joy of your Christian spirit.  

See the world anew  

“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made…” Romans 1:20 NIV

Study a part of the world that has always interested you, or use travel to coax your body, mind or soul out of a stuck place. Marvel at God’s love for us in a place of natural beauty, or find a new quiet spot for reflection and prayer.

Or go big: a beautiful state or national park can inspire wonder and gratitude, nourishing the spirit. Look at Mars through a telescope. Gather fresh vegetables at a farmer’s market and cook something delicious. Whatever you choose, focus on the amazing world God created and how He reveals Himself to us through it. 

Strive for fitness in soul and body  

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2

Our bodies are gifts from God, and it pleases Him when we work to keep them strong. As you hone your daily routine, don’t forget to make time for an exercise practice. When we take care of ourselves, we are better able to care for others.  

 

It’s inspiring to rediscover the joyful energy of the back-to-school season. Even if we’re no longer students, the season makes a wonderful time for us to learn, grow, and become renewed in living our faith.