Before the Bell Rings

Every calling comes with challenges, but when you begin your day with God’s presence, He equips you to serve with compassion, patience, and strength.

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
— Galatians 6:9 NKJV

Every morning, Karin from New Mexico makes a choice. She wakes up, turns on Family Life Radio, and lets worship music prepare her heart for what’s ahead.

“I’m a public school teacher, and it’s hard. Kids are struggling. Teachers are struggling.”

There’s nothing easy about walking into a classroom filled with emotional needs, high expectations, and heavy stories. But Karin remains determined to show up with God’s presence still echoing in her spirit.

“Listening to this music in the morning helps me have patience and love for others throughout the day.”

When you start your day filled with God’s presence, you carry His peace into every space you step into.

For Karin, the calling to teach requires a daily decision to invest in hearts and minds, even when the reward isn’t immediate. Galatians 6:9 reminds us: don’t grow weary in doing good. God sees the seeds you’re planting, even when the ground feels hard.

And Karin chooses to keep planting. “I’m happy going into work. I pray for the children daily.”

That’s the heart of someone walking in partnership with the Father. She’s not trying to carry the burden of every student. Instead, she brings them to the One who sees it all. And she’s allowing His love to shape her response, moment by moment.

You may not be a teacher, but you’re called to love people in a world that’s hurting. And like Karin, you don’t have to do it in your own strength. Start the day with God’s presence and let Him pour into you what others will need from you.

Today’s One Thing
Before stepping into your day, take five minutes to pray for someone you’ll see—at work, in your family, or in your neighborhood. Ask God to give you His love, His eyes, and His patience for them.

Go Deeper

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