Welcome to October! Wait…what!?!? How did we get here so fast? After five decades, you might think I’d be used to the years flying fast, but like most of us, I’m always amazed by the rapid passing of time..

Along with time pressures, we homeschoolers face unique challenges—balancing schedules, academic responsibilities, extracurriculars, and the vital role of discipleship all at once. It’s easy to feel stressed or discouraged, wondering if you’re doing enough or if the path you’ve chosen is the best for your children. In moments like these, it’s essential to remember the call of one of my favorite verses of Scripture found in Hebrews 12:2: “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” (NKJV)

The Call to Focus

Hebrews 12 was written to encourage pressured and persecuted believers to run their race with endurance (Hebrews 12:1). We may not be persecuted, but we can certainly understand pressure. Like all of life, homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint, and requires perseverance. But the key to running this race well is not found in perfect schedules, ideal curriculums, or flawless days. The key is keeping the eyes of our hearts fixed on Jesus.

Jesus is described as both the “author and finisher” of our faith. This means He initiated our journey, and He will bring it to completion. It can be tempting to rely solely on our efforts—our ability to plan, instruct, and manage our households. But just as our salvation rests entirely on Jesus, so does the ultimate outcome of our children’s education and spiritual growth.

Jesus’ Example of Endurance

Hebrews 12:2 points us to the example of Jesus, who endured the cross “for the joy that was set before Him.” Jesus didn’t shy away from suffering but embraced it, knowing that His ultimate purpose—our salvation and the glory of God—was worth the pain. In the same way, we will face trials and struggles, but when we remember our higher calling—discipling our children for the glory of God—it helps us push through the hard days.

Jesus didn’t just endure the cross; He “despised the shame” and is now seated at the right hand of the Father. This is a reminder that every hardship in the Christian life, including the challenges of homeschooling, is temporary. There is joy and victory on the other side because we follow a risen and reigning Savior.

Encouragement for Homeschooling Families

In a world that constantly shifts its focus—whether through changing educational philosophies, societal pressures, or personal expectations—the call to “look to Jesus” remains constant. Jesus is the foundation and source of wisdom for both our personal walk with God and for the work we do in raising and educating our children.

By keeping our eyes on Jesus, we acknowledge that He is the one who shapes our children’s hearts, builds their faith, and equips them for the future. They are in His capable hands. This doesn’t mean that our efforts don’t matter—they do. But it means that our confidence isn’t in our abilities but in Christ’s faithfulness.

So, as you run your race, don’t grow weary of well doing. Lay aside distractions, lean into the Word, and most importantly, keep your eyes on Jesus, knowing that He has already secured the victory for us and for our children.

“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus…” (Hebrews 12:1-2)