“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” 1 Corinthians 2:14-15 NIV

Working in a public school, I need to be careful about how I talk about God. Yes, I strive to stand out as a Child of God through my behavior and how I love those I encounter. 

But we live in an age when teachers are specifically told not to share their personal opinions, especially concerning politics and beliefs.

As a music teacher, I’m intentional about mentioning my role as a worship leader. I may mention that I lead worship when talking with students about our weekends, or I’ll share that I encountered a specific music theory or performance concept when leading worship. 

But as with most things I say during class, I never know what lands with students.

I’m intentional about leaving space in my class routine for students to talk with me individually. The week before Christmas break, there was a lull in the class discussion, and as the class of 30 students chatted while transitioning to a new activity, I heard a voice to my left say, “Miss Russell, you go to church, right?”

And I sent a quick prayer up for wisdom for wherever this question was leading.

I turned to the student and replied, “Yup!”. He proceeded to tell me about some kids at his church who were singing a song at Christmas that he regarded as his song, and he wanted to give them attitude because they were singing his song without asking him.

And . . . another prayer for wisdom. Ah, teenagers.

I asked him if that was really the attitude he should have, and he answered no. Then I said,” And really, who is the song for?” He replied, “God.”

Wow, thank you Lord for answering my prayers so quickly.

The conversation continued for a few minutes, but I was struck by what had just happened.

Because I’ve had thoughts that I’m not great at my job anymore, and the students would benefit from having a different teacher.

And yet, God used me to speak truth to this student. Even in my discontentment, and even when I believe He’s leading me in a new direction, He used me.

What an honor to be used. May we never cease to be available to God, and to be in awe when He uses us.

How is God using you in your current circumstances? How will the knowledge that God “uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere” change how you view your current circumstances?

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” 1 Corinthians 2:14-15 NIV