What's Next?

"But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering" (James 1:6a).

One technique I commonly used to motivate my children when homeschooling was the cliff-hanger. I would entice my children's appetite to learn by only presenting enough information to get them excited. Reading only to a climatic part in a story, I would stop and say, "If you want to find out what happens, you'll have to read the rest for yourself!" This tactic was a great motivator, especially for my oldest daughter who couldn't stand not knowing the ending.

As adults, not knowing the ending can be frustrating, too. Who doesn't want to know what is going to happen next? If we had our way, we'd love to have God spell out the answers and endings to life's problems. However, like the men and women of faith listed in Hebrews 11, we must learn how to trust God. Tucked away in this great chapter is the secret that will enable us to keep going when we don't know what we should do — diligence. Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." We sacrifice faith's reward too easily!

Do you believe God will show you what to do when you need an answer? Are you diligently seeking Him each day believing that He exists and hears every one of your prayers? Read far enough into His Word today until you find a promise just for your problem. Then, trust His Word to light your path (Psalm 119:105)! You may not know the answer or see the ending to the problem you are facing right now, but like the men and women of faith who have gone before you, you know the One who is leading you. He will reward you with understanding and wisdom to face every cliff-hanger you may have.

Father, thank You for not abandoning me. Some days I have no idea what to do to handle the day's homeschooling problems. Please, hear my prayer of faith today and reveal the answers I need. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Share This Article

Comments(8 comments)

JENNIFER E 11/30/2010 06:22:25

Thank you for adjusting the new Daily Focus format so that all of the writing appears in the email itself! I read it every morning on my smartphone, before anyone else is up and before my computer is turned on, with all of its distractions and possibilities. When the new format first came, the blog itself was a "cliffhanger," designed to get readers to link to the website. While I understand the reasoning from a marketing standpoint, it made reading the devotional a near impossibility for me and anyone else who, like me, was working from a small mobile screen. I'm a homeschool mom who also has a demanding career as a performing artist and arts education consultant, in addition to working as Children's Ministries Chair at church and helping my parents run an 85-acre farm and retreat center. Starting my day with prayer and this devotional, while I'm still in bed and the house is completely quiet, has made an amazing difference in my attitude and what I can accomplish each day, through God's grace. Thank you!

AMBER B 11/30/2010 07:43:25

I must also say thank you! I also read this on my smartphome 1st thing in the morning:) but I must say that todays devotion....wow! It was so perfect for my needs! Thank you! I feel that God has used the Daily Focus in so many encouraging ways in my life! I'm always passing them on to friends:) they are great!

SUZANNE S 11/30/2010 07:51:07

I look forward to reading the Daily Focus every morning!!! Today's left my eyes wide open. My husband and I were talking last night about finding the answers to a few "cliff hangers" in our lives and our children. I can't wait to share today's message with my husband. You all put a spring in my step, even when our homeschool is having a rocky day! Thank you so much!!!

DIANA M 11/30/2011 08:29:27

This brought tears to my eyes as I so needed the inspiration today! Thank you Lord for using this email to guide us. Reminders are always needed as we get off track so easily and often let the \"cliff hangers\" devour us with fear. Great Day! Great words!

HEATHER B 11/30/2011 10:45:23

After a devastating fire 2 weeks ago that left us homeless and school-less, I have had to Faithfully rely on Gods promise to never leave me. I am quietly listening, waiting as patiently as humanly possible, for Gods perfect will to be revealed for my family. This is one cliff- hanger I can\'t wait to hear the end of! The blessings abound and all 6 of us are alive and healthy!

JENNIFER O 11/30/2012 05:17:32

Heather B:

Oh, my heart goes out to you. Losing your home is difficult enough. As a homeschool mom I have to admit that I have actually thought that one of the horrible things about the possibility of a devastating fire would be losing all of our BOOKS. We make such an investment in them and it would be heartbreaking for it all to vanish. I am sure we can put together a box of things that I would pray would bless you if I could know where to send it. The ages/grades of your children and the types of curriculum you use would be helpful as well if you are led to share. Prayers to you and your family.

Blessings,

Jeni O.

JENNIFER O 11/30/2012 05:19:37

Heather B: P.S. My email address is jeni_oneill@me.com if you would like to respond off-list.

Brian Eastling 11/30/2014 15:52:46

Heather B. Our family started home schooling in 2008 and in Jan, 2009, we had a chimney fire. We also have endured an electrical fire in July of this year. I totally understand your roller coaster of emotions that you no doubt are going through. Know that God is with you and that you can make it! If you want to talk, feel free to send me a message at eastlingb@gmail.com. Even though you are busy, I'm so glad you are able to read the devotional and am praying that you have a good group of people to help you/hug/be there for you as you go through this.


Blog Categories


Homeschool eNews


Want more information?


We're available right now!

Call 1-800-622-3070

CHAT NOW Schedule a CALL BACK Free GETTING STARTED GUIDE Email us a MESSAGE