The F...

Dear Friend, In third grade I did not master all of the multiplication facts. I struggled with fact fluency and was an avid finger counter because of it. I would solve the problem, but it took longer than others. Math was not one of my strong subjects. I reflected on this moment as I played a relay math game with my own third grade class. I noticed the students who knew their facts because they ran to the board with confidence. While the students who were unsure closed their eyes as they timidly wrote a number on the board (praying it was correct)! Not sure if you caught it...but the very grade and skill I struggled with is same grade He has called me to teach! If I had focused on my deficits I never would have moved forward! God’s purpose for my life was not predicated on what I thought were my weakness. He approved me and called me to education before the foundations of the Earth! (see Ephesians 1:4) Focus on what He’s called you to! His word will not return to Him void. (see Isaiah 55:11) He called me to education and that’s where I am! Don’t allow the past, present circumstances, or the environment around you detour you from what He has ALREADY established! Refuse to be moved by the naysayers and those who look down on you because of your weaknesses. It may be that your called to show compassion to someone else that’s walking down a similar path. Celebrate every moment and focus on your strengths and watch how you grow! I realize now I didn’t have to be fluent in math facts as third grader in order to teach third grade! Approved by The Teacher,

Jess

Jessica Thompson M.ED (@jessblessed) is a third grade teacher for LL.OWENS school in Pine Bluff, she is an active member of Canaan Christian Center and the Vice President of Operations for LMJ (LaKisha M. Johnson Ministries).

Check Out Today's Coffee and Conversations: The Simple Life: The Game Changer https://youtu.be/KamrXbaaQBM