This is the first in a 7-part series for step 8, covering each of the 7 biblical Principles of America’s Christian History and Government. They are not at all meant to be comprehansive, but merely some of my thoughts on these principles as I read each section in A Guide to American Christian Education.

“Everything in God’s universe is revelational of God’s infinity, God’s diversity, God’s individuality. God creates distinct individualities. God maintains the identity and individuality of everything which He created.” Rosalie Slater,  GACE p. 31

God created us in His image as unique individuals, with an outward identity amd inward individuality (p. 31) His Kingdom is based on individuality–salvation, service, relationship–we are all responsible for ourselves. You can see here why this principle is the one from which all the others spring. I am responsible for my own thoughts and actions, soo the other principles at work will spring from this most basic idea. It’s about me. And without the help of Christ we are hopelessly doomed to fail. (There is a vast difference between Christian individuality and human individualism.)

Educationally we can easily apply this principle. We see individuality (or the lack of it) in classrooms and homes all across the globe. I believe those that celebrate, encourage and require individuality are those that are the most successful. Individuality is seen in:

• individual subjects
• individual students
• individual work
• individual accountability

This is one of my favorite principles across the subjects because it is so readily seen:

• Mathematics: individuality of numbers and equations
• Science: individuality of creatures and processes
• Literature: individuality of authors and their works
• English: individuality of letters and words
• History: individuality of men and nations
• Geography: individuality of the Earth and its construct
• Art: individulity of artists and their works
• Music: individuality of musicians and their compositions

It is one of the most exciting principles, and one of the easiest to readily see. It will change your life when you meditiate on the idea that God created you in a unique and special way, with a plan in mind.

Starting with Me

God made me special–

Like no one else you see.

God made me a witness

To His diversity.

                                               –Rosalie Slater