Seeing School Differently

September 17th, 2025

Written by Sherri Bergmann

From junior high through high school, we often move from mildly concerned to downright obsessed with how our peers see us. Many desperately try to fit into a “popular” circle, while others choose to stand out — or stand apart.

In the process, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters, how brief this season really is, and how it shapes the rest of our lives. Even more important is understanding our role in it — and God’s.

It’s common for students to feel suppressed, depressed, or rejected, even those with a strong faith. A school environment that ignores or rejects God can make it harder to see Him or believe that He is in control.

Here’s how to shift your perspective as you go through school — to remember your real purpose, why He created you, and His place in it.

See His Handiwork

In science classes, notice the detail in a single cell, the design of a flower, or the way the universe holds together. The same constellations Jesus looked at still shine above us. Consider the variety of creatures in the water, on land, and in the air — and how wonderfully you yourself are made!
When you study these things, dwell on them as signs of His glory instead of letting boredom set in.

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows his handiwork. —Psalm 19:1

Our Existence

Public schools must explain our origins through science, but they also have to avoid promoting religion. Supreme Court decisions in 1968 and 1987 ruled that while evolution can be taught, banning it or mandating creationism is unconstitutional.

Because God is excluded as Creator, schools present various theories about how life began. Darwin’s theory of evolution — that humans descended from primates — is one of the most widely accepted.

But what’s often missed is that these are theories, not absolute facts. Even scientists continue to search for answers apart from God. One idea suggests that life began in warm water or deep-sea vents, sparked by lightning or other energy sources, and slowly evolved from water to land.

This stands in contrast to Scripture, which teaches that God created distinct species:

And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. —Genesis 1:24-25

“Each according to its kind” points to God’s intentional design.

Some scientists argue humans came from primates, yet key differences — physical, mental, and spiritual — set us apart as a unique creation.

Secular explanations often steer attention away from God as the grand designer who set the sun, moon, and heavens in place for our benefit:

Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. —Genesis 1:26

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. —Romans 1:20

Even more amazing is that humans were made for a special relationship with their Creator.

Bullies, Callous Teachers, and Negative Peers

The Bible calls us to pray for those who hurt or discourage us. They may intimidate, drag us down, or try to lead us away from God — even toward drugs or lies about our worth.

Pray for them, and do good to those who persecute you. Many later regret the harm they caused, and people don’t forget those who were kind. Some may even become Christians because of the example you set.

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

Make the Most of Yourself — for God’s Glory

God has given each of us unique gifts. Maybe you discover in art class that you’re creative, or in math that you’re analytical. Perhaps you’re a natural leader, or your school gives you opportunities to use your voice to bless others.

Look at school as a place to explore how God designed you — to develop your skills, inspire and uplift people, and serve Him. Using your talents can be an act of worship. Make the most of this season; life moves fast, and you won’t get these years back.

Notepads and Sticky Notes

Choose a favorite Bible verse each day, write it on a sticky note, and place it in your locker. It’s a simple way to keep God’s Word in front of you — especially when you need encouragement.

Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. –Proverbs 7:2-3

Pray Throughout the Day

“Pray without ceasing” means staying connected to God wherever you are — in the hallways, classroom, or lunchroom. Pray when you see someone in need, thank Him often, and ask for wisdom when opportunities arise.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
–1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

School can feel overwhelming because of pressures around you, but you don’t have to lose yourself — or God. This is a prime time to discover your gifts, marvel at His creation, serve others, and resist influences that pull you away from Him.

When you understand your place — and His — you can navigate this brief but meaningful season with strength and purpose. You can overcome, because He already has.

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