God Goes Before You

Today we’re talking about the first day of school and that God goes before you.

It’s the first day of school for some. Backpacks are packed, lunchboxes filled, and nerves are high—maybe for the kids and the parents! Whether it’s pre-K or senior year, there’s something about new beginnings that stirs up a swirl of emotions: excitement, fear, hope, and uncertainty.

But here’s the good news—we don’t walk into the unknown alone. God goes before us: ahead of our kids, ahead of their teachers, ahead of you as you drive away from that drop-off line with misty eyes and a brave face.

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT) — “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Let’s start this morning with a reminder: Wherever today leads—God has already been there. He’s not only walking with us, but He’s also gone ahead to prepare the way.

First days are full of “what ifs.” What if they don’t make friends? What if they get lost? What if I cry in the car? But here’s the truth: God already knows what’s coming today. Nothing is a surprise to Him. The unknown isn’t unknown to God.

It’s comforting to think that before your child even steps foot in that classroom, God is already there.

Just like a good parent checks out the school ahead of time, God prepares the way spiritually.

Remember that as we give our children to God, we’re not handing our child over to the unknown—we’re placing them in God’s care.

Nerves are normal for both kids and parents, and God will meet you right there in the midst of all those emotions and feelings. Pray with your kids before they get out of the car—this will bring peace and calmness to everyone.

As your kids get out, continue to pray for them, and maybe even pray specifically over their seat, their lunch table, their friends, and their teachers.

What would it look like to start every day this year with a prayer with and for your kids?

Let God lead you and your kids this year.

GOD WALKS WITH OUR KIDS

Imagine this: Your child walks into school—but they’re not alone. God walks in with them—into that classroom, onto that playground, even into that math test. He is their steady companion today.

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT) — “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

This doesn’t just say God goes before us—it says He will be with us.

While you may not be physically with your child all day, God never leaves their side.

Have you ever seen God show up for your child in a surprising way?

Hold on to that and know that He is there with them.

Let’s help our kids be brave as they enter a new school year. Speak life and courage over your kids this morning: “You’ve got this. And God’s got you.”

Bravery isn’t the absence of fear—it’s stepping forward with God.

Write them a little note and add a scripture or prayer in their lunchbox.

That note will remind them of you and put a big smile on their face because you thought of them—and that might be just what they need to make it through their day.

Not every kid walks into school with confidence. Some walk in feeling alone.

The good news is that God sees them. He draws near to the lonely-hearted.

When my kids went to public school, I always told them as they were getting out of the car to be sweet, be kind, and be helpful. Ask God to use your child to be a light to someone else today.

Overall, we know that it’s hard not to worry when we’re not there to protect our kids.

But today is a day to trust in the Lord and rest in Him, knowing that He sees each child and cares for them.

The first day of school doesn’t just affect the kids—it affects the whole house. It’s a shift in rhythm, a fresh start, and for many of us, a test of faith.

Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT) — “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

So, what does it look like for all of us to walk into this season with God going before us?

Once school starts, so many changes happen—but the biggest is our schedule and the quietness at home.

We have to get used to it all over again every year. But God is with you.

What are you hoping for this year, and what are you nervous about?

Reflect on that and ask God to be with you as you work toward your goal and to give you peace in it all.

Start a new routine by connecting with Him first, and let Him be your guide as you get used to the school routine.

God isn’t just watching over your kids—He’s walking with you as well.

Today is just Day 1—and God’s faithfulness will show up every single day.

He was faithful last year. He’ll be faithful again this year.

Your words matter. They set the tone for the day.

Before everyone walks out the door, speak a quick blessing: “God, go before us. Be our peace, our strength, and our guide.”

Take a deep breath. You did it. And He’s still got it all in His hands.

When the day is over, connect with your kids and ask, “What was one good moment from today?”

Encourage your kids as much as you can.

From the bus stop to the classroom, from the morning drop-off to the evening homework—God is present in every detail. He’s gone before you, and He stays beside you.

God is not just watching over the year ahead—He’s already walked through it.

Take heart today, Mama. Be encouraged, Dad. Trust, student. Whether it’s pre-K or your senior year… walk boldly. Because God goes with you.