Monday, August 3, 2009

Self-Directed Study Discussion Topic: Lesson 1

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Question 1: What characteristics stood out to you? How do these characteristics apply to Christian education now? What is your role in the education of your students?

5 comments:

yhwh6640 said...

Daniel 1:8 "Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself" Taking a stand for right regardless of the consequences reflects a love for God greater than a love for self. He also approached his authorities with humble gentleness to entreat them to allow him liberty rather than defiantly showing his righteousness, which would have only put them in a defensive position to resist him. What humble, godly wisdom!
Although my children are not my authorities, perhaps I, as a parent-teacher, can entreat my children with humble gentleness to persuade them to try out the right path rather than barking orders, putting them in a defensive position to want to resist me. What selfish attitudes in me defile me? Wanting the job done regardless of what interaction occurs between myself and the children.
Since I am just beginning this study and have not yet begun to use the Noah Plan with the kids. We are still using another Christian curriculum. We are struggling with it because there is little motivation for the kids to "learn their lessons." It's like pushing rope. It leads to many battles. I start each day purposing in my heart to not defile myself with anger and frustration, but as the day goes on, I most often fail.
This study is already becoming so personal. It is shining a huge, bright spotlight on my character deficiencies. I know they are there, but I need tools and the power of God to overcome them and have victory in godliness.
--Alex

Michelle Heidemann said...

Yep...and we thought we were in it for the kids :) .

I'll write more on this one later. I'm at the library and need to pick up my son.

Danika said...

BE so greatly encouraged, Alex!! I had no idea God desired for ME to renew my mind as well! It has been an incredible challenge, but I am finally in the "6th" grade this year, at 38 years old!!! haha! Ah, but God desires us to know Him, to know Him, to know Him. The more you avail yourself to this process of transformation by the renewing of your mind, you will be that teacher God has shown you glimpses of!!

I have written an article, articulating why "canned curriculums" albeit Christian ones, do not cultivate a love a learning in the child. It sounds like this is your current experience. If interested, I would be more than willing to share it with you, but let me say for now, be diligent in your studies. The sooner you can wean yourself and your children from the other curriculum and begin using the PA full-time, the fruit will bear witness of itself.

God is tender toward you. Don't forget that it's grace upon grace upon grace. He knows the plans He has for you, and your children.

Michelle Heidemann said...

Danika...if you don't mind sharing that article, it may be helpful to post it as an article in the blog. I would, of course, put your name in a 'by line.' I would just need to look at it first. This is a VERY common question.

Danika said...

Michelle, email me at canadanika@gmail and I will send you the article for your review. You can decide to post it or not...