Being pulled out of public school when I was 13 changed my entire life.
When my not so little sister and I were pulled from public school, I was absolutely appalled at how many thought we were immediately stupid. At how many rude comments were made. At how many condemned what we were doing. But I learned to shake it off, because there's no safer place to be than in the center of God's will. The first few weeks starting out were a bit rocky, as it was hard to find my pace with this new school. It was a massive change. My faith and capabilities seemed so weak compared to the students on screen who knew and comprehended so much. As time progressed, I remember beginning to greatly admire and respect my history teacher, Mr. McBride. And I feel I speak for everyone who has used the Abeka program, Mr. McBride is someone you will truly never forget. It was almost like having another grandfather as a teacher. I remember first perceiving him as incredibly wise with a heart that cares for teens and the will God has for them. As I faced an excruciating spinal fusion surgery around December in eighth grade, Mr. McBride’s humor and compassion for teenagers made me forget all the pain I had been going through. Even in a history class, I felt like I was in Bible class. Mr. McBride taught me that just as a country needs God, it starts with us and our characters… as people, as individuals. Recovering from my surgery, countless times I wanted to writhe in my tears and be left alone. I felt so drained, both physically and spiritually. That was when my mother would flick on the television, push in the DVD, and start my classes. By the time I got to my history class, my cheeks were hurting from smiling so much. Not knowing then, but realizing now, God was using Abeka to shape my life into what He wanted it to be. Each word, each lesson, was used to shape me into the woman of God I needed, and still strive, to be. Personally, I thank God that Mr. McBride let God use him. Without his words, I do not know if I would be the person I am today. I grew immensely in the Lord that school year. My trust in God seemed stronger. I was able to memorize Scripture. I could name the states and their capitols. I was able to succeed in math speed drills. Everything seemed to progress as time went on. All thanks are due to God. Now a senior in high school and having many classes with Mr. McBride, my heart aches at the fact that I will not get to have him as my teacher anymore. In times when I felt lower than low, God spoke through him with perfect words, giving me enough encouragement to put one foot in front of the other. I fear even thinking what my life would have become without this Christian academy God placed in my lap, and Mr. McBride that God used as His mouthpiece. Still, as I step into an uncertain future with a certain God, Mr. McBride’s words will constantly ring in my ears: “When something comes across your path that you know you have a decision to make, make that decision based upon what you know your Savior would have you do. Trust Him. He knows far better than you do, and His plans for you are marvelous. Use faith, don’t make fleshly decisions. Don’t make self-centered decisions. Make them based upon what this Book (God’s Word) would have you to do. That’s faith.”While I realize that homeschooling is not for everyone, there is never a day that I would not recommend Abeka Academy. Abeka is how I discovered my true identity in Christ. Abeka is how I discovered that everything in school should relate back to God and everything should line up with the Word of God. Yes, even mathematics. From a senior who used to hate school as a child, I never thought I would say I would greatly miss school when it ends this year. It goes to show you how wonderful God's plans are if we truly step out and follow them. While others may judge and never understand, God will stay by your side and cheer you on. He will never lead you somewhere to just dump you and run. He goes before you, preparing the way. I will eternally be grateful for the God-given opportunity of being able to better myself first and foremost, spiritually, then physically and mentally as well. I don't know where I would be without Abeka. Would I even be the same person? Would Rosepetalsandfaith exist? Would I stand grounded in my faith? While I would like to say yes, I truly believe the answer to that question would be no. Homeschooling completely rearranged and changed my life...for the better. It's incredible how God works things out. As I said earlier, homeschooling isn't for everyone, but what is for everyone is the will of God. He can change your life, give you hope, and fill you with joy. I will never be able to repay Him first off, for sending His Son to die for me. Secondly, for sending Abeka Academy to my family. It's been a blessing, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to have the teachers God has given me. I encourage you dear friend, follow the will of God, for it's so much better than our own fleshly desires. Until next time... Keep Smiling, rosepetalsandfaith <3 Discover more about Abeka Academy here.You May Also Enjoy:
3 Comments
Gianna
4/14/2019 04:26:33 pm
I loved this post! I am an abeka academy video student who is in 11th grade. I currently have Mr. McBride as my bible and history teacher , and he is amazing! You speak so highly of him and that made me really think about how much the abeka teachers mean to me. It makes me really want to strive to do well and cherish the memories . This post really touched me and I want to thank you for posting ! I love your blog!
Reply
4/19/2019 09:21:07 pm
Girl, this touched my heart! Abeka and the video teachers will always hold a special place in my heart. Praise God! I’m so glad you enjoyed! Praying that you follow the Lord’s will and share Jesus with others! :)
Reply
Leave a Reply. |