Would you like to know the best back-to-school item for your child's successful distance learning? No, it's not a new computer, and it's not a new microscope, math manipulative, or the latest educational game. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that the most effective tool you have is simply the positive words you use to encourage your child. No high-tech gadget or apparatus can ever leave as profound an effect on your child's education as saying things like, "Wow, you did a great job on that test!" and "How did you learn that so quickly?" Though it seems too good to be true, affirming your child with words of praise is the quickest way to motivate him to higher academic achievement.

As Christians, God also knows how encouraging words help us achieve success in our spiritual walk. Repeatedly, His Word provides the words we need to encourage us through life's hardest lessons. Read His promises to those who are in Christ Jesus:

"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us" (Romans 8:37).

"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4).

"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Do you find yourself apprehensive as you face a new year of educating your child at home? Don't despair. The encouraging words that help your children achieve academic success are also what God uses to help you. No matter what you might be facing, the King of the universe loves you and will encourage you to achieve even more than you dreamed possible. "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26).

Lord, thank You for Your encouraging words that fill me with hope and joy. Please, help me to seek You each day to achieve all You have planned for our family. In the name of Jesus, Amen.