The Christian EducatorA publication of North Valley Baptist Schools

Jumpstart the New Year

By Josh Nolan

Undoubtedly, you have approached your vehicle one late, cold evening only to find the car engine dead. Perhaps, like me, several times through Bible college, your vehicle had a full battery, but failed to start because of problems with your alternator or starter. It sounds like it is about to start, but then refuses to turn over. You are stuck. You cannot go anywhere. Your precious vehicle, which you have washed and pampered, has now betrayed you and left you out in the cold! How do you fix that vehicle so that it will fulfill its purpose once again? Give it a jumpstart.

Over the summer, I get a paycheck by installing and repairing carpet. For the last four years, I have received work from a man who is married to his job. This man is in his late fifties, has never been married, and has worked literally sixteen to eighteen-hour days for the last three decades. Up and out by 5:00 a.m. and working until 8:00 p.m. does prove a man's character. In the case of my employer and friend, it also caused a stroke this past August. As he was adjusting to his new life with slight paralysis of the left side of his body, he had a second stroke in October. This second stroke affected his right side. My friend was told that doctors are not exactly sure what causes strokes, but they are a result of continuous stress to the brain. I began to think of my life as a teacher.

As teachers, problems, problem solving, deadlines, never ending projects, and frustrations can also add a bit of 'stress' to our life. A constant state of stress is not healthy for our bodies, nor is it pleasant for you or those around you. If you are feeling stressed, or if you feel like you are getting nowhere and need a jumpstart, please consider the following Jumpstart Checklist:

1. Rest

2. Spend time with God

3. Analyze your time and priorities

4. Talk to your boss about your schedule

5. Workout

6. Develop a hobby

7. Plan recreation

8. Read old thank you notes

It is our responsibility to take care of our bodies and make sure they are the most effective for the lives we influence. Jumpstart into the New Year.

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