From Chaos to Calling: Trusting God in the Back-to-School Rush

Today was one of those days. Not enough time in the day. The copier wasn’t working when I needed it. The laminator was jammed, again. Decisions needed to be made yesterday. Priorities were reshuffled like a deck of cards, and somehow, I was in every meeting on the schedule. In between, I found myself unloading trucks and pallets, making sure teachers had their furniture, curriculum, and—let’s be real—enough room to breathe with some classes already bursting at the seams.

And then there were the “bonus features” - leaks in a couple of rooms, chipped paint here and there, and that constant low-grade hum of “We’re not ready yet!” It felt like organized chaos—but in a school, that’s how every year begins. Staff trickle back, the hallways slowly fill with the sounds of preparation, but no students yet—just anticipation.

I know we won’t get everything done in time for the Sneak Peek, Supply Drop, or New Family Orientation. But somehow—by the grace of God—it all works out. The day arrives, the doors open, and 99% of families walk away happy, content, and excited. And you know what? That’s a pretty good percentage.

As Billy Graham once said: "The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us."

Focus Scripture

"Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established."* – Proverbs 16:3

Thoughts

Life, even without a school start-up, can feel like a never-ending series of unexpected laminator jams. Stress, shifting priorities, and the weight of responsibility can make us feel like we’re just one broken copier away from losing it. But God reminds us that He is in control of every detail. The chaos we see is often the canvas on which He’s painting His masterpiece.

The truth? We’re not called to have it all under control. We’re called to trust the One who does.

Life Application

When life feels like it’s spinning faster than you can keep up, it’s easy to slip into stress mode and start reacting instead of resting in God’s presence. But here’s the truth—chaos doesn’t have to control you. When your day feels out of control, remember to pause before panic, see God in the interruptions, and release the results into His hands. Whether you’re juggling deadlines, school drop-offs, or simply trying to keep the coffee pot from running dry, commit your work to the Lord and watch Him turn your interruptions into invitations to trust Him more.

When your day feels out of control, remember:

1. Pause before panic – Take a deep breath and pray before reacting.

   
   

2. See God in the interruptions – That “inconvenience” might be the divine appointment you didn’t plan for.

   
   

3. Release the results – We do our best, but God is the one who makes it all come together.

This week, whether you’re wrangling school supplies, navigating work projects, or just trying to keep the coffee pot full, commit your work to the Lord. Let Him turn your chaos into His calling.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being the calm in my chaos. Help me to trust You when the to-do list is long, the copier is broken, and the clock is running fast. Remind me that Your grace is sufficient for every task, every meeting, and every unexpected turn. May I serve with joy, lead with love, and rest in the knowledge that You hold it all together. In Jesus’ name, Amen.