He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. Psalm 147:4
I remember when we were considering homeschooling the boys. There was such a fear that they wouldn’t receive the education that we wanted them to have. We were afraid it would somehow mess them up for life! We were concerned how it would affect them socially. We were actually quite arrogant to think we had that kind of power!
I have to say that amidst all the negatives, God put people in our path who supported the idea of homeschooling. We had a few people who were actually in the public education system. They were incredibly positive, and gave me the confirmation that we were making the right decision for us.
You see, we left the school on very good terms. We were thankful for the wonderful education with the fantastic teachers that they had received so far. They had friends and enjoyed their school. We weren’t pulling them out under negative issues. We were moving them toward new opportunities.
At the time all of this was happening, we were making acquaintances that turned more into family relationships! We didn’t even realize that many of them had homeschooled or were filled with amazing advice that God seemed to want us to hear. Little did I know that He was choosing a group of people who could be trusted to give Godly council, support us in all situations (even when that included telling us we were wrong), and who were incredibly trustworthy and kind.
Some of my dearest friends and those I’ll confide in before anyone else live in different countries from me…even on different continents as me! It’s amazing to think how I can have people all around me, and God chooses to match me up with those who are so very far away.
Those dear friends and I are different in so many ways. We live differently, look differently, speak differently, and are all different ages. Yet, we are closer than family. How can that be? There is only one way to describe it…God. The One who knows best.
Just taking a look at how He worked, made me realize just how big He is and how He’s involved in all the details of our lives in order for us to succeed. We can be separated from friends by so many miles that I can’t even imagine traveling, yet there’s His presence on all sides of the world. He’s taking care of everybody and seeing to every person’s needs all at once!
Don’t fall into the trap of judgement that people sometimes will. I used to hear that children who are homeschooled are socially awkward. They just don’t know that many times, they’re actually able to communicate with all different people from all different cultures and in all age groups because they aren’t limited to being with only one age every day.
I challenge you to do what I’m going to do today. Remember how big our God is. There may be a reason you’ve been put into contact with that person who might seem unlikely to be your friend. There may be a reason that God is arranging you to meet others who are different than you. If he even decides to match you up with someone who’s rude and judgmental, maybe He wants you to show them a different way.
My oldest is still learning from his retired third grade teacher…they’re pen pals! I’m learning every day from my friends. I even wonder if I would’ve stayed strong in homeschooling and in life if I hadn’t embraced the wonderful people who God put in my path.
Yes, there may be differences between us and the people we meet, but I found out there’s usually even more similarities. God already has a plan figured out and the people in place to get you through all situation gracefully and calmly. He has people lined up to bring you great joy just for knowing them. Now it’s your choice if you’re going to believe it or not.
Faith. Just use it.
