Staying Responsible Through Spring

God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. Heb 6: 10-12
 
“Homework – When will it end?!”   Though the phrase, “God helps those who help themselves” is not found in scripture, this passage may be the source of that sentiment. Our God, who is Just, rewards the faithful effort we have offered, especially as it relates to our service of others. Does this apply to homework?
 
I think so...especially in spring, when the days grow longer, the weather is perfect, and summer is just around the corner! The writer encourages “diligence to the very end.” What is the reward for those who remain diligent till the end of the term? Their hope is sure. Rendered down to a basic academic principle, every student hopes to finish the year and move forward into the next grade. Let’s consider your role as a parent –
 
1.      Work before play – I asked my 4th grader about the key to staying diligent through the end of the year, and her answer was to finish the day’s work before playing. A simple principle, but even a kid can understand that playing is more enjoyable if one has finished the work. 
 
2.      Cast a vision for next year – What two words are worse than homework? Summer School. While it might be beneficial in some cases to attend summer school or even to repeat a grade, homework laziness is not a good reason. As a parent, help your son or daughter remember that one reward of today’s diligence is the freedom to enjoy a passing grade into the summer.
 
3.      Relationship – Even in these verses about work and diligence, the writer makes a point about the love that we show to God. Schoolwork is not just about passing grades; it is about showing faithfulness to the God we love. We honor God by our faith, diligence and patience. He, in return, blesses us with abundant life – today, this summer, and into eternity.