As the end of the summer holidays draw near, parents will be starting their preparations for the new school year. From buying backs and books to sorting out uniforms and stationery supplies, there's a lot to do in the lead up to starting back school. One thing that you might also be thinking about if you're responsible for some young Christians is how to motivate them for the upcoming academic year after they've spent weeks enjoying the outdoors and making the most of the summer weather. Sharing some brief but powerful Bible verses with them as they head back to school is a wonderful way to equip them for the coming term.

For when they need encouragement
Whether it's their first day back or their first day of school ever, there's no child that won't benefit from a little extra encouragement. You can show them that not only are you in their corner but God is too with these Bible verses.

Hebrews 11:6 - And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Romans 8:28 -And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

For when they don't get things right
School should be a safe space for making mistakes, after all, getting things wrong is often how we learn to get things right. If you know that your child is particularly anxious about messing up or tends to give themselves a hard time when they do, these Bible verses can help them to see that regardless of their mistakes, they must and can persevere.

2 Chronicles 15:7 - But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.

Psalm 37:24 - Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

For when they need inspiration to work hard
Knowing that it's important to try your best is a lesson of great value to kids. While school can be a place where they get their heads down and do well, there are also tons of distractions which can tempt them to stop putting their all in. These Bible verses work well if you're trying to get them to continue working hard.

2 Timothy 1:7 - For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

Galatians 6:9 - Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

For when they need to ask for help
Asking for help isn't something that a lot of children find easy to do at school so it's no wonder some teachers display the sign, "there is no such thing as a stupid question" in their classrooms to reassure students who are afraid to speak up when they fail to grasp something. These Bible verses will help you to remind your kids that it's OK to ask for help and they can always call on God in their time of need.

1 Peter 5:7 - Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Psalm 120:1 - I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me.

Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.