Daily Focus - Back by Popular Demand

"God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty" (1 Corinthians 1:27b).

In all my years of teaching, "popular" was one word I never heard used to describe homeschooling. Many times I heard words like illegal, over-protective, and crazy, but certainly never popular. Going against the educational norm led to some hot debates, especially within my family. When talking to relatives who were certified teachers, I never heard phrases like, "Oh, how interesting!" or "That's great, how can I help you?" Instead, my ability and sanity were questioned, and I was warned about the practicality of such an undertaking. Even today, 25 years later, most people still think it's odd that I homeschooled my children.

Being unpopular is difficult for any young homeschooling parent. Your need for acceptance and approval is strong, but your need to temper your emotions with God's perspective on popularity is more important. After all, rarely did God use the popular person to do His will. A serious Bible study would reveal that God usually used the unloved, unwanted, and broken person most. Leaders like David and Moses, prophets like Jeremiah and Jonah, and common women like Rahab and Ruth were chosen by God over the popular counterparts of their time. Even Christ experienced the sting of rejection from the crowds and religious leaders who wanted to crucify Him.

Are you feeling the pain of being unpopular today because you homeschool? Does your single income leave little money for trendy wardrobes or even new clothes? Do others treat you with disdain because you're "just a mom"? Have friends stopped calling because they don't understand how homeschooling limits your free time? You may not be popular in the world's eyes, but in God's you are a precious jewel. By obeying His call to teach your children, may you find your value in Him and hold fast to the One whose acceptance is all that really matters! "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me" (Psalm 118:6)?

Dear God, I feel so lonely. Show me how to be obedient when others don't understand our choice to homeschool. Teach me to find comfort in Your loving arms that surround me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.