By Sister Erica Williams
As a school administrator and a mother, my days are filled with opportunities to love, guide, and encourage others. Working with students with complex needs requires patience. There are days when progress seems slow. Emotions can run high and the demands feel overwhelming. Yet Psalm 23 reminds me that God faithfully cares for those who spend their lives caring for others.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
This verse reminds me that as I work to provide a safe environment where students can grow, God provides everything needed. He equips me with strength when I feel depleted. God also gives me wisdom when difficult situations arise. I will not succeed on my own.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.”
Working with students in crisis can be emotionally and physically demanding. God understands the weight I carry. He invites me to find rest in His presence so that my heart can be restored. The peace I help create for others begins with receiving His peace.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.”
Some days bring unexpected challenges. It can be easy to become defeated and discouraged. Through every challenge, God walks beside me. His presence gives me hope when I cannot yet see the outcome.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
God honors faithful service that is often unseen by the world. Every calm response instead of frustration, every positive relationship I build, every prayer whispered before a difficult meeting, and every act of love matters to Him.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
I must trust that God’s goodness follows me into work, my home, and every place where I serve. The Shepherd who leads me will also sustain me.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being my Shepherd and my constant source of strength. Renew my spirit when I grow weary, calm my heart when situations become difficult, and remind me that You are always with me. Bless my family, my school, and my community with Your peace. May my words, actions, and love reflect Your heart each day. Thank You for the privilege of serving others and for leading me every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.