You're God's Gift to Teachers - by John Marder (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

You're God's Gift to Teachers provides biblical encouragement to teachers. Uniquely, this book is targeted directly at teacher issues, with passages organized in 50 topics from A-Z. While the focus is on the bible verse, the author writes a specific context for teachers for each passage. This helps the reader have a greater understanding of the application, and therefore appeals to not only the "strong Christian" but also the newer Christian or even someone simply "interested" in a Christian perspective. Topics include Caring, Confidence, Empathy, Faith, Generosity, Helping Hand, Integrity, Laughter, Leadership, Perception, Priorities, Service, Teamwork and many more. A recurring theme is that God has given you the gift of being a teacher. While the teacher is finding encouragement through the passages, they are also to "pay it forward" to their students.

A passage on Love from Romans 12:9 states "Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good." Author Marder adds "Loving a student really means never giving up on them and constantly expressing hope. Show them you value the difference between right and wrong, something they can hold onto for their whole life." The topic on Positive Thinking from Philippians 4:8 states "And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Marder notes, "So now you know - it's not the self help gurus of the 20th century that came up with the power of positive thinking! In fact, Paul speaks to the issue 2000 years ago. In this letter directed to the Christian church in Philippi, it is noteworthy that he is providing this encouragement from jail (on trumped up charges)! The days for teachers are often long and challenging and it would be easy to get down. Keep you mind on the good things in life to keep your spirits up."

There are over 170 pages of topics, and teachers have a place to jot notes, thoughts or prayers, that may be prompted by the reading, about or for students or others. This makes this quality hardback book both a workbook and a resource book for now and the future.