The honest teacher may need to face the reality that he or she, not his or her learners, is the “rock” causing the teaching to be a hard place. Teachers, like learners, can have a cold countenance, callused heart, closed mind, or critical spirit. In this case, learners suffer the most, but the teacher suffers too.

Teachers rarely choose to be the “rock” in the hard place. But teachers may make choices that lead to becoming the “rock.”

Some teachers neglect the habit of strong personal devotions and active participation in the life and work of the church. This neglect produces a disconnection between what is taught and what is lived, between what is to be and what is in practice.

Some teachers neglect their teaching craft, ignoring the need to continually sharpen the skills and knowledge needed to be both effective and efficient in their teaching. This neglect produces somewhat hacked-out work strenuously created with less than a joyful heart and an eager mind.

Some teachers neglect the need to think about, pray for, and display sincere interest in their learners. Presenting facts and truths unrelated to real people with real needs is a shame against the adults who come to Bible study. It also sucks the ministry life out of the teacher who teaches lessons instead of learners.

At one time or another, even good and caring teachers may, to some degree, succumb to any or all of these “rocks.” What can teachers do about it?

Regularly conduct an audit of your teaching ministry. This audit could include personal reflection and prayer and the counsel of trusted friends. Such an audit can reveal both strengths and weaknesses and prompt meaningful solutions to the exposed problems (especially confession of sin, where needed).

Schedule time for training and enrichment of your teaching skills and knowledge. Such opportunities can help renew the weary spirit of an otherwise good and godly teacher.

Plan time away from teaching. Such times can offer the weary (and perhaps grumpy) teacher opportunities for rest and refreshment.

Are you the “rock” in your own self-made hard place? Do you know a teacher who is and who needs help? Take these suggestions to heart and share them with a friend. You and your learners will be glad you did.