A Peace

We make decisions all day long.  Some are quick, split-second decisions that don't mean a whole lot.  But very important ones, for me, require prayer and waiting for the peace of God.  One such decision is whether to send my children to school or not.  Now let me begin by saying, if you would have asked me 10 years ago if I would ever think of homeschooling my children, I would have said, "Are you crazy!?" Even 5 years ago, I would have not thought it would ever really be a question whether my kids would go to a school or not.  But today, with my 3 year old getting ready to be 4.  And starting pre-school with him at home, I have started to pray whether the Lord wants me to teach my children at home. 

I had many of the same thoughts that you are having right now about it.  People will think we are weird.  People will think we are out of touch with reality.  Our children won't be socialized.  And the list goes on...  But at this point in my life, I am learning I could really care less what people think.  I am responsible for my children, not the world, thankfully.

So first of all, lets just accept that we are weird.  And I'm okay with that. 

We are not out of touch with reality.  If anything, I am so in touch with the real world, that I see the growing need for children to be instructed by their parents.  And I don't mean 1+1=2.  Too often parents believe that the school system is supposed to teach their children all things.  But morality and life issues are taught in the home.  We are responsible to teach right from wrong, and that there are consequences to wrong actions.  And we are the ones responsible to teach our children responsibility, and that by doing our best at something we receive a reward.  One thing that we are doing with Brody is a chore chart.  When he fills it all up, he gets to get a toy at Walmart.  While that may seem small now, it is teaching him that working hard is worth something in the end.  Every day he also does the chores with daddy.  And he knows that daddy goes to work every day so that we can have money for food and clothes and all of our necesssities.  He's 3 and he understands this.  We are going to be buying some chickens in the spring for him to take care of and he will get money when we sell them to buy himself a bicycle.  He is already talking about it and is so excited. 

And the main resistance I get about homeschooling is that my children won't be socialized.  Obviously you don't know Brody.  The child never stops talking.  But more than his personality, I look at my husband.  He is more than kind to strangers.  He is has complete respect for his elders.  He is a hard worker.  He can teach others.  He has strong core values.  All taught through home-schooling.  Those were things that his parents taught him.  He also has a master's degree.  So I promise you that home-schooled kids aren't stupid!  lol!  I hear that a lot too.  Blows my mind.

So the decision is still up in the air.  I haven't completely made my decision.  I know what I'm leaning towards.  But I believe that the Lord will clearly show me what I am to do.  He will give me that peace that passes all understanding.  The peace that calms my fears of not being smart enough to teach them...or dedicated enough...or disciplined enough.  He will still my heart and speak to me. 

Decisions to be made...get on your knees....seek God's wisdom and guidance...He will give you the peace.

Philippians 4:7
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Numbers 6:25-26
the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace."

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.