New Year’s Day is sort of like the first day of school. It’s as though God gives us each a spotless new notebook, sharp new pencils, new textbooks full of new lessons, and a fresh start. Whether or not that comes as a happy thought to you probably depends on how well you did in the last grade, last year. If you excelled, you’re probably ready to greet the new year with high hopes and bring-it-on enthusiasm. If you just barely squeaked by, you probably feel something between jitters and trepidation.

Either way, this coming year can be your best yet because Jesus wants to be your personal tutor. He’s pretty smart, and if you’re smart you’ll take Him up on His offer. Who could better help you through the school of life? After all, He designed the course, wrote the textbook, and put together the tests, so of course He understands the material inside and out and has all the answers. What’s more, He loves you dearly and wants to see you succeed even more than you do.

As you learn to take your questions and problems to Him and let Him explain how He sees them, you’ll find that things will click like never before. He will help you solve even the toughest problems, and teach you to capitalize on your mistakes by turning them into learning opportunities. He’s patient, loving, and wise—and did I mention He knows better than anyone how to make learning fun?

Why struggle on your own for a passing grade when Jesus can help you make the honor roll? And when the final exam comes around, Jesus will help you ace that too, and you’ll be so proud when you hear Him say, “Well done!”