Did you know that the term “school,” as used for a place of learning, is derived from the Greek “schole,” which means “leisure”? It seems that the Greek mind so closely connected the concept of leisure with the pursuit of learning, and self-improvement, that they could hardly think of one without the other. Note: “School” as we are using it does not come from the same source as “school” of fish. This “school” is derived from the Old English “scolu,” which means “multitude”. So much for our trivia lesson.

It will not be long until the start of yet another school year. Perhaps, you have already stocked-up on your supplies, purchased required material, and bought new school clothes.

Here are some things to remember this school year –

1. Begin each day with prayer and Bible reading (Psalm 119:147-148; Mark 1:35).
2. Be an example to others “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
3. Test all that you are taught with the word of God (1 Thessalonians 5:21; Psalm 119:99).
4. Be selective with your friendship. Choose those with good character for your friends (Psalm 119:63; Proverbs 13:20; Proverbs 27:17). Avoid those of bad influence (Psalm 119:115; Proverbs 1:10-15; Proverbs 13:20; Proverbs 22:24-25; 1 Corinthians 15:33).
5. You will not always be popular, if you are truly a Christian ( Luke 6:26; 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 Pet.er 4:4).
6. Flee tempting situations (2 Timothy 2:22).
7. Obey your parents (Ephesians 6:1; Colossians 3:20). Some young people think that their parents are just old and out of touch, and perhaps, other’s parents are not so strict and demanding. Still, obey your parents. Respect their restrictions and requirements.
8. Live a life dedicated to God (Romans 12:1; Galatians 2:20). Remember that He sees all (Psalm 139; Proverbs 15:3; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Mark 12:36-17; Romans 2:16, etc.).
9. Be kind (Colossians 4:6).

a.  Words are Wonderful Things

– Mrs. E. R. Miller

“Keep a watch on your words, my darling,
For words are wonderful things;

They are sweet like the bees’ fresh honey,
Like the bees they have terrible stings;

They can bless like the warm, glad sunshine,
And brighten a lonely life;

They can cut, in the strife of anger,
Like an open, two-edged knife.”

b.      Rules of Behavior

– unknown

“Hearts, like doors, will open with ease
To very, very little keys
And don’t forget that two of these
Are ‘Thank you sir,’ and ‘If you please’ ”

10.  Learn all that you can. It may help you be a better employee or employer, spouse, parent, and even a better servant of God in the future.

Going to School

– John Martin

“Dear God, a school day comes again,

With many things for me to do.

Please bless my heart and guide my brain

And make me thoughtful, strong, and true.

My lessons may seem dull to me,

And study hours long and dry,

But if you help me, then I’ll see

How fast those useful hours fly.

O God, go forth with me today,

And help my head and guide my hand,

For You are wise and know the way

To make me learn and understand

Open my heart and eyes to see

How kind is every study hour;

For each one offers gifts to me

Like wisdom, patience, love, and power.

                                                Amen”