In today's world, true excellence is a rare gem, especially in the realm of education. The landscape is cluttered with what is falsely touted as purposeful and essential, often overshadowing the genuine standards of excellence that should be the cornerstone of Christian education.

Most people are dedicated only to themselves, doing nothing to contribute to the best interests of the people around them.

If the truth were known, it has never been easy to find individuals who derive fulfillment from contributing to a cause greater than themselves.

In the Old Testament book of 1 Chronicles, chapter 11, King David is depicted as a leader who has gathered around him more than 30 exceptional men. These men, described in the text as honorable, sacrificial, strong, loyal, mighty, and valiant, were dedicated to a cause greater than themselves. They were willing to lay down their lives to fulfill the Lord's will in the life of their king, becoming God's instruments in establishing His chosen leadership over His people.

Leaders can understand the benefit of having dedicated teachers who are committed to excellence.

Those whose knowledge underscores their commitment, whose dedication highlights their purpose, whose devotion enhances their duty, whose humility encourages their generosity, whose excellence produces their drive, whose confidence inspires their colleagues, whose love points to their Savior.

Characteristics of a Mighty Teacher:

• A mighty teacher is consistent, yet flexible enough to allow God to provide change. Although teachers work countless sacrificial hours to prepare for their classes, they can seize the day (carpe diem) by allowing "teachable moments" to make a lasting impact on their students' lives.
• A mighty teacher is tough, yet tender-hearted, praying, laughing, and sometimes crying, to genuinely demonstrate concern for their students and colleagues.
• A mighty teacher is committed, yet comfortable enough to allow for individuality. Adjusting to the individual learning needs of the many-faceted students that God has placed under tutelage is the mark of a master educator.
• A mighty teacher is knowledgeable yet humble enough to realize that wisdom is an ongoing process.  Being an ever-learner and having the courage to adapt to a changing culture with well-researched and documented new, effective methods is a mark of a true, mighty educator. Personal and professional development are the keys to becoming an effective teacher.
• A mighty teacher is driven, always planning, always working on a project, always pushing students to achieve more than they ever thought they could. Even in the summer months, a mighty teacher takes the time for self-reflection: What did I do well, and what can I do better next year? This continuous cycle of improvement is what sets a mighty teacher apart.
• A mighty teacher gets immersed in the lives of others. Empathy is not readily found as a characteristic in any field or area of our culture. Fast-paced lifestyles often do not allow for the development of meaningful relationships.
• A mighty teacher does not know how to stop loving, continually exemplifying selfless Christ-like love. A great educator once shared this simple yet profound truth about God: He never stops loving us. It is far easier for us to love one another than it is for God to love us. Think about that.

Final Thoughts: 

A mighty teacher inspires students through their dedication, hard work, and positive impact, one who motivates students to believe in themselves and strive for their goals. A genuine "mighty" servant of the Lord, like King David's choice servants, gives their life and energy to the promotion of the Lord's will. The fact that we question whether we are a mighty teacher means that we already are one. The influence of a mighty teacher can never be erased.