Back in School

In May of 2002 I graduated with my Associate of Arts and had no idea what four-year degree I wanted to pursue. I spent the summer researching and trying new things, hopeful I would gain direction by fall semester. July came around and I joined my group of college friends as a junior counselor at a local children’s camp. This was a new experience, and I discovered kids were tons of fun. On the last day of camp, a new friend pulled me aside and offered me a paraprofessional position at the small Christian school she worked for. Teaching wasn’t even on my radar until that week at camp. A few days later I accepted her offer and also enrolled in an elementary education evening program.

Teaching was natural and I enjoyed the daily challenges. This was obviously my calling and I knew I’d teach children for life.

Until I didn’t.

 

My Fifteen Year Hiatus

After two years in private school and six in public, God turned my heart toward home. He opened doors at two local colleges, and I became an adjunct instructor. During this season, God gifted us with two children, four years apart. I arranged my class schedule around the availability of family members and never had to put either of them in daycare. My love of writing and ministry also grew during this season and God stirred new directions inside me.

In 2019 I tentatively accepted a position on church staff as Outreach and Connections Coordinator. This was a completely new position for our church and I felt sure they picked the wrong person for the job. My insecurity ruled much of my mind, and I had not learned to confidently speak, write, and minister through God’s power.

Covid craziness hit, and I resigned from all adjunct teaching responsibilities. It seemed like the end of an era and a calling I knew was from God.

Then God stopped tugging on my heart about writing and instead began poking. There were no time constraints or extra duties in the way. I had no more excuses. It was time.

For the last six years, I have lived a life of ministry; through the church and with writing and speaking. This season fulfilled me. I was still able to teach on a regular basis, but instead of teaching math, I taught about Jesus to grown folks. Finally, I called myself a writer and speaker.

Then God tugged again.

 

Say What?

During my mornings with God this past spring, a new thought entered every time prayed: Tell the school you’re available for the fall.

I immediately rejected the thought. My body was getting to a better place after my fibromyalgia diagnosis, my cycles of rest were more consistent, exercise was happening, and I had plenty of time for writing and other ministry. Why would I risk my health by going back into the school system? I couldn’t stand on my feet longer than two hours, so how could I be a teacher?

After a month of fighting the thought, I decided to entertain it. If this is from you, God, please make it so clear I can’t deny its origin. I have no desire to go back into the classroom. Why now? What purpose?

God sent confirmation through scripture, prayer, conversations, affirmations, and in other astounding ways that made it clear—it was time to go back. And I needed to trust him.

 

Fifteen Years Later

Walking onto campus in September felt surreal. The principal arranged a part-time assignment as a math interventionist. Three days a week would help me keep rest a priority. I chose the upper elementary grades and actively participated in creating my own schedule of classes. Even though writing and speaking are my joys in life, teaching math to upper elementary has always been my favorite educational assignment.

It was strange being on campus again after 15 years away. Everything about me and my relationship with God had changed. I wasn’t worried about the Department of Education coming for a visit or who I needed to impress. Stress and anxiety no longer ruled me. Instead, I prayed for students and teachers as I passed by their classrooms. I waved at the little kids in line and smiled when their eyes met mine.

Each day I’m there, whether I’m hurting or tired, I keep a smile on my face and encouragement on my lips. I’m there on purpose. On mission. Building students up. Encouraging new educators. Writing devotions for spiritually hungry teachers. And representing Jesus.

 

What About My Body?

Is it easy on my body? Not at all. Every day I’m there it’s physically hard, walking between seven classrooms, the cafeteria, and my office. But when the pain increases, I silently ask God to be my strength. I’m confident I’m in the right place for this season. And I remind myself, and God (like he needs reminding), that I can’t do this without him. He always meets me in my moment of need and I’m learning smarter ways to move my body throughout the day. I’m also guarding my times of rest with great fervency.

Being in the classrooms three days a week, I’m given opportunities to brainstorm with teachers and assist with implementation of new ideas. Old teacher friends stop me in the hall and ask me to pray for them, and kids don’t let me leave classrooms without giant hugs. Because of these great rewards, any pain I feel seems like a temporary inconvenience, not a burden.

I’m learning to trust God in a brand-new way. No more leaning on my own knowledge, understanding, and strength, but solely on him.

Go where he says go. Do what he says do. Write what he says write. Rest when he says rest.

Where has God called you?

Are you relying on yourself or on him?

Do you feel stressed or at peace?

Stop trying to have the answers and realize he is the only answer. It’s not about where you are. It’s about whose you are. Are you representing?

“Not to us, not to us, but to your name be the glory…”

For more from Inspire a Fire: WHO’s in CHARGE ANYWAY? – Inspire A Fire

Copyright Christy Bass Adams, October 2025, All Images from Canva