By Ashlee Chu

Summer coming to a close marks the beginning of a new academic year. This time of year brings lessons waiting to be learned that will eventually filter into our educational, professional, and personal relationships. Having the proper school supplies are what can help us be geared up and ready to learn in any environment that we will be in.

Below is a special Top 10 School Supplies list modeled from a Yahoo! Shopping article. These supplies not only have literal use but have metaphorical applications as well. They will be helpful in the different types of classroom settings we encounter (i.e. office) and translate in correlation to our relationships.

1. Writing Instruments

Putting pen to paper is a significant action. Whether we use ink or a keyboard, our words have power and lasting effects on both the writer and reader. Remember to think carefully before you write or type to your employer, friend, or family member.

James 1:19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry

2. Writing Pads & Notebooks

Take notes both physically and mentally. It is vital that we do our best to document what we are learning in the journey of life. This can also be applied to church services and Bible studies. Taking notes allows us to later reflect on the growth we experienced during our personal study of the Word.

Psalm 119: 9-11 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

3. Erasers and Correction Tape

The beautiful characteristic of the written word is that it can be rewritten repeatedly to perfection. White-out is a glorious tool that helps us fix the small typos we’ve failed to catch. There is no eraser, however, for what we say. Whether in a heated debate or emotional conversation, keep in mind that we are a representation of Christ’s love amongst our co-workers and family members.

Proverbs 12:18 There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

4. Binders & Accessories

An area many of us struggle in is organization. It last for all of two weeks before clutter has overtaken our space. Staying organized will better assist us in utilizing and maximizing our time at work, with friends, and with our loved ones during our already hectic schedules.

Proverbs 5:23  He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly.

5. Staplers, Tape, & Glue

Become more involved with your community by volunteering in outreach projects. You will step out of your comfort zone and into new friendships quickly as well as contribute to the well-being of those in your community.

1 John 3:17 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?

6. Calculators

Take account of what and who is important. By this I am not just referring to paying bills on time or your significant other, but perhaps planning a family activity or spending a few extra minutes in prayer.

Hebrews 3:12-13 Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

7. Lunch Boxes

Eat at least three meals a week with a new person. Our meal break can be a time that we “break bread” with someone who could positively challenge our faith. Or it can also be a time that we engage with someone that may need an ear to listen. Positive outcomes that come from challenging yourself to being more personal are the comforts of being heard and known.

1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

8. Backpacks & Bags

Take some time to lighten your load. Rifle through the things that stress, frustrate, and worry you on a regular basis. Pray for the guidance on how to positively navigate these situations as they arise.

1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

9. Locks

A painful lesson we all must learn is trust. When do we let people have access to our lives, and when do we padlock to protect our hearts? Remain conscious of what you are sharing and with whom. Opening up at the right time at work or with friends is beneficial to your own mental and emotional stability.

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

10. Flash Drives

Who holds all of our information? God. It’s understandable that we become drowned by the everyday. It is crucial, however, that we take even just a few minutes to spend with Him so as to not be consumed or transformed by what surrounds us.

John 15:4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Remember: “Back To School” is not just for the academic student working towards a diploma or degree; it is for all of us. What we learn extends outside the classroom and into our daily lives. Reference this simple supply list to learn, grow, and engage in your various relationships during this new year of learning.

Copyright © 2011, Foundation Restoration.  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No reproduction allowed without written permission from Foundation Restoration and/or the author.