As the buses crank back up and the class bells ring again, preparations are being made for another school year. Whether on a college campus, at a local public or private school, or even in the home, there are Bible examples worthy of students’ emulation.

The morals of Joseph (Genesis 39) - Joseph was a handsome young man, far from home when Potiphar’s wife cast longing eyes on him. But he refused, spoke of his master’s trust and exclaimed, “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” Joseph abstained from sexual immorality and kept himself pure. He was determined to glorify God. May we be thus minded.

The confidence of David (1 Samuel 17) - David stepped right in when an enemy of God was defying the Lord’s army. Though much smaller in stature, David was ready to fight the mighty Philistine warrior, Goliath. David’s confidence was not so much in himself, but in God. David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head.” And he did! No need to fear our “giants,” but rather face them confidently, walking with God.

The unashamedness of the former blind man (John 9) - Jesus healed this man who had been blind from birth. Upon receiving his sight, this man confessed Jesus to be the Christ. Though an unpopular position, the former blind man clearly identified Jesus as divine. He was mistreated and kicked out of the synagogue for his willingness to defend the Lord. Would you be willing to do the same? Others may not understand, and ridicule our living for Jesus (confessing Him in word and deed). Nonetheless, we must be unashamed of the Lord, lest He be ashamed of us upon His return (Mark 8:38).

Prayers for all students, faculty and staff. May God bless you as you head back to school.