No Matter What - Choose JOY!

Our pastor started a new series called "The Pursuit of Joy" this past Sunday. I thought it was interesting that he did not use the movie title, "The Pursuit of Happyness." Then, as he described that happiness is based on happenings and joy is based on choice, I understood.

Here is a summary of his thoughts and how I think it applies to homeschooling:

• Get over the distractions of what happened.

We all have those days or even those big moments when our children "just don't get it." It is so easy to spend hours pouring over different curriculum or reading to get different viewpoints, trying to find a solution. Simply put, why don't we ask God? He is the one who got us into "this", and I believe that He wants to direct us. Focus on the solution giver and not the problem!

• Discover the new opportunities.

We need to recognize that with each "distraction" there is a purpose. God is doing something, not only in them, but in us, the parents, also! Seek Him to find out exactly what wonderful things He is doing through the chaos.

• Focus on what really matters.

This is the hardest, because our culture continues to push us to make sure our children "fit in." But, truly, the most important thing is our children's relationship with God. Do we trust God enough to take care of the rest? Isn't it more important that our children have eternal life, rather than knowing how to do algebraic equations? Keep the eternal things in front of you.

To hear or view the full message by Chris Hodges, click here.