Homeschooling isn’t always easy.  It can be awesome and extremely rewarding, but it can also be challenging.  It’s harder to homeschool during the tough times.  Even though you’re homeschooling, you still have to deal with financial, health and relationship issues.  It’s important though that you keep those things in perspective and not give up. 

One of my favorite old hymns, Because He Lives,explains how I find peace during the tough times.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.

Because He lives, all fear is gone.

Because I know, He holds the future.

And life is worth the living

Just because He lives.

I try to keep my eyes focused on what God has done for me rather than on my current circumstances.  God loves each of us so much and has a wonderful plan for all of our families.  I have to trust Him to lead me through the tough times, even when things aren’t the way I hoped.  God sees the big picture and is in control. 

No matter what is going on in my life, I cling to Jeremiah 29:11.  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”  When I’m feeling discouraged, I try to listen to uplifting Christian music.  I try to sift through my thoughts and recognize if Satan is trying to attack me with negativity.  If that is happening, I have to take those thoughts captive and get rid of them!  I try to focus on the scriptures that remind me of Who He is.  I try to get some peace and quiet (relatively quiet anyway) in the house so that I can just be still and let the Holy Spirit minister to me. 

As a Christian, I am blessed with new mercies everyday from The Most High God.  I try to remind myself that I am a princess, the daughter of the King and that He is taking care of me.  His favor IS upon me and I have to keep the faith. 

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all of your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

Nancy Carter

May 2005