The simple reality is this: when I am accomplishing great things…let’s stop right there. Great things in my life will lead to great falls if I do not first recognize that, in my weakness, I am truly weak. I must learn and be reminded that what I do and what is accomplished through me is simply of the Lord. If this truth is not deeply ingrained in me in moments of weakness—my reality—then I will not survive the pride that comes with success—God’s blessing. It is interesting that neither success nor hardship comes solely because of my merit, yet I often attribute personal merit or failure to both.

Consider David on the run from Saul or Balaam and his donkey. David, though anointed, was scorned and made an outcast. The best he could gather in this season of weakness was a band of misfits. On the other hand, Balaam was a revered prophet of God who was sought by kings and showered with wealth. Do these examples show that the blessing of the Lord is proof of the merit of the one receiving it? The answer is no. This is why I must train my heart to seek my reward from the Lord rather than from the accolades of this life. Only then can I truly receive His grace, whether in despair or in blessing.

This principle is vital when leading students toward academic excellence and helping them discover their God-given potential. Their ability is not ultimately defined by the grade they receive but by the honesty behind that grade. A hard-earned ‘B’ is far more valuable than an effortless ‘A’ because it represents true growth, resilience, and integrity.

We do not want students to struggle needlessly at HCA. Instead, we want them to be okay with struggling, to see struggle as part of the exciting process of learning. We want them to feel supported and guided, yet also empowered to give their best effort. We want them to understand that we are all weak in different ways and that God is at work through those weaknesses. More than anything, we want them to grasp the depth of His grace in their lives.

It is a humbling honor to witness this every day at HCA. I see it personally in the lives of my four daughters. They receive the same blessing as every student under the care of these incredible teachers.

Today is Valentine’s Day—what better time to share some love? Take a moment to encourage a teacher with a message of gratitude. Thank them for being an extension of God’s strength in your child’s life. They are amazing!