Warrior Wisdom

Discussion Questions:Read Nehemiah 9:6-31. As I shared during the podcast, write out the list of attributes of God that you highlighted in the passage. What does your list show about how God has worked in your life? Write your own "Nehemiah 9:6-31". Bless and praise God for all he has done in your life.Are there sins, needs, or priorities that need to be confessed and/or addressed in your life? Use what you wrote in #2 to help you ask God for deliverance and/or guidance.

Did you know our eighth graders are becoming historians and entrepreneurs through the eighth grade Warrior Project? In this episode, Mrs. Teresa Chambers sits down with eighth grade students, Sophie, Ingrid and Elliott, to share how this year-long passion project is bringing learning to life.Through research, creativity and real-world application, students dive deeper into U.S. history while developing entrepreneurial skills such as goal-setting, perseverance and problem-solving. From writing and publishing historical fiction to producing podcasts and creating community art installations, each project reflects a unique blend of curiosity and innovation.This conversation highlights how FBA equips students to explore their interests, embrace challenges and confidently share their work beyond the classroom.

Discussion:Are you good at handling downtime?How can you be more attentive to God's word? What is keeping you from doing so? Do you have a hobby or something you do just for fun?Are there things in your life that are out of order or even broken in your life? What is the first step you should take to help restore order or put the pieces back together?

Did you know accreditation says more about a school than you might think? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers is joined by Middle School Principal Mrs. Razeghi to unpack the deeper meaning behind private school accreditation and why it matters for families.Far beyond paperwork or compliance, accreditation serves as an external validation of FBA’s commitment to excellence, accountability and mission alignment. From academics and governance to financial stability and spiritual formation, it ensures the school is not only meeting high standards but continuously improving.This conversation highlights how accreditation strengthens both the internal and external community, providing confidence that FBA is faithfully delivering on its mission while preparing students to thrive academically and grow in their faith.Find out more about the ACTABS and CESA accreditations below.https://actabs.org/https://www.cesaschools.org/

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Discussion Questions:In what ways has God led you to sacrifice as a leader? Have you ever struggled to sacrifice something that was rightfully yours for the greater good? What is something you've had to persevere through as a leader? Are you a starter or a finisher? Do you love the start of something new, but struggle to finish? Or do you struggle to get started but if you can start you will drive through the finish?Do you struggle to let jobs go once they are complete? Have you ever been called to hand off leadership of something to someone else, how did it make you feel?

Did you know fine arts play a leading role in bringing FBA’s mission to life? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers sits down with Dean of Fine Arts Ms. Sweeney to explore how students are discovering and expressing their unique God-given gifts.Through visual and performing arts, students build confidence, discipline and perseverance while learning to take risks and grow through challenges. From goal setting to embracing failure and stepping into the spotlight, fine arts naturally reinforce the entrepreneurial mindset in a creative and meaningful way.This conversation highlights how fine arts at FBA help students grow in confidence, creativity and purpose.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Discussion Questions:Are you willing to be bothered even when it is not convenient?Are you able to listen to and be concerned for others during chaos and crisis?Are you able to think clearly, deeply during chaos and crisis? What does it look like for you to "take counsel with yourself"?Do you put off correction of problems and/or sin because the work is too important to disrupt?

Did you know grit can be developed? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers is joined by Mr. Stephen Carter to explore how FBA is intentionally building grit in students through the entrepreneurial mindset.As one of four key focus areas alongside growth mindset, redefining failure and opportunity seeking, grit is being cultivated through goal setting, perseverance and daily habits. From “don’t break the chain” in lower school classrooms to SMART goals in middle school, students are learning how to follow through, embrace challenges and achieve long-term goals.This conversation highlights how grit is not something students either have or do not have. It is something that can be developed over time, shaping discipline, confidence and a mindset prepared for growth both in the classroom and in life.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Discussion Questions:Are you currently facing any specific opposition to something God has called you to do? What type of attacks are you facing?Have you ever allowed outside forces to impact your God-given goals or derail your God -given work? How did you get back on track?What is the most difficult change you've ever had to lead others to make?Is there a leader who is a consistent source of encouragement for you personally and in your work? How have you shown them appreciation?Is there a leader who you believe is a great example of servant leadership? How have you shown them appreciation?

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Discussion Questions:What behaviors clearly distinguish a micromanager or an over-delegator in your day-to-day work? What is one recent situation where you may have leaned too far in either direction?What does healthy delegation look like in your job, family, etc.? What small change could you make this week to move toward that balance?When under stress, do you tend to control more or withdraw more?What systems or habits help you strike the right balance?

Did you know FBA is actively seeking Christian educators called to teach with purpose? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers shares the heart behind hiring kingdom-minded, mission-aligned educators who see teaching as more than a profession, but a calling.At FBA, every classroom is a place of influence where truth shapes identity, forms character and unlocks each student’s God-given potential. Guided by the Characteristics of Professional Excellence, FBA seeks educators who model Biblical integrity, lead with a servant’s heart and create Christ-centered learning environments.This episode also highlights key opportunities supporting the school’s growth and strategic initiatives, including roles in instructional coaching, learning support, early childhood leadership and Bible instruction, while inviting families to join in prayer for God’s guidance and discernment in this important hiring season.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Discussion Questions:Which are you more prone to do:a. go straight from vision to action and skip the planning?b. get stuck in the planning and never launch?Which is harder for you: a. keeping a vision to yourself until it's time to bring others in? b. finding the courage to share the vision with others?Can you cast your vision to others as clearly and succinctly as Nehemiah? Try writing it in 50 words or less...the problem, the plan, and the power.

Did you know FBA intentionally nurtures students’ social and emotional well-being alongside their academic growth? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers sits down with Lower School Counselor Ms. Waverly Walk to explore the heart behind Warrior Wellness.Designed for students in bridge kindergarten through fourth grade, Warrior Wellness equips students with the tools to build healthy relationships, understand their emotions and respond in a Christ-honoring way. Rooted in Scripture and aligned with FBA’s core values, this program supports students in becoming known, loved and prepared to thrive both in the classroom and in life.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Discussion QuestionsWho in your life has been a good example of a servant-leader? What have you learned from the way they lead? Have you ever expressed your appreciation to them for their leadership?Are you good at truly seeing other people? Do you ask them questions, listen to their answers, and allow yourself to be moved by their circumstances?Who has been praying for you “day and night”? How has knowing this impacted your life? Have you ever expressed your appreciation to them?Whose good have you persistently sought through prayer, fasting, and your actions, without regard for what it might cost you personally?How have you sacrificed to serve others?Have you left your comfort zone to serve someone else?Have you used your influence to do good for someone else?Have you used your resources to make a difference in someone else’s life?

Did you know we walk alongside each eighth grader on their path to high school? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers sits down with Middle School Counselor Mrs. Sandra Wilson to discuss how FBA intentionally guides students and families through the high school application process.From exploring schools in seventh grade to preparing applications, interviews and placement exams in eighth grade, this journey helps students reflect on their strengths, goals and readiness for the next step. Along the way, families, teachers and counselors work together to support each student as they prayerfully consider the right high school fit.More than just an application process, this experience becomes an important moment of growth as students begin taking ownership of their future and prepare for the opportunities ahead.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Similar Questions as Last Week:Are there any sinful attitudes, habits, influences, or relationships in your life that you need to separate yourself from?When you recognize your sin, does it genuinely grieve you? What emotional and even physical effects does unconfessed sin have on your heart, mind, and body?In what ways has your sin impacted others?In what ways does sin affect your relationships with others?

Did you know FBA has a faculty member dedicated to the spiritual growth of our students? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers sits down with our Dean of Spiritual Life, Ms. Netter, to share how spiritual development is intentionally woven into every part of life at FBA.From chapel and Bible curriculum to student leadership opportunities, parent Bible studies and mission partnerships, Ms. Netter's role ensures that our Christ-centered culture is not an add-on but the foundation of WHO WE ARE. This conversation highlights how students are being guided to understand their identity in Christ, live out their faith and grow in purpose as they prepare to become active participants in God’s story.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Are there any sinful attitudes, habits, influences, or relationships in your life that you need to separate yourself from?When you recognize your sin, does it genuinely grieve you? What emotional and even physical effects does unconfessed sin have on your heart, mind, and body?How does remembering God’s goodness, the goodness of His law, and His kindness toward you increase your willingness to confess and turn away from sin?What usually prevents you from confessing sin quickly—pride, fear, shame, rationalization, or something else?In what ways does sin affect your relationships with others?

Did you know our middle school athletics are about far more than just learning a sport? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers welcomes back Athletic Director Coach Clementz for part two of the conversation on intentional movement and formation at FBA.While competition is certainly part of middle school athletics, the true purpose goes deeper. Through team experiences, leadership development and Christ-centered coaching, students are building resilience, coachability, accountability and confidence. Athletics becomes a classroom for character where effort, humility and perseverance are formed during a pivotal season of identity development.Through intentional coaching and a Christ-centered approach, FBA athletics prepares students not just for high school sports but for leadership and life.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

How is your personal worship life? How is your participation in communal worship?In what areas of your life do you need more of “take heart, because God is with me” and less of “I set my heart to do, to study, to teach”?How is FBA called together as a community to accomplish God’s calling? In what ways does FBA currently worship together, and what are other ways it could grow in worship as a community?Have you ever fasted to seek God’s will? In what ways was it easier or harder than you expected? What did you learn about yourself and about God?

Did you know our lower school is on the move? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers and Athletic Director Coach Clementz share how FBA’s intentional physical education program is building confident, coachable students beginning in prek.Designed specifically with Generation Alpha in mind, FBA’s lower school PE plan emphasizes purposeful skill development, motor learning, sport education and character formation with a focus on movement, self-regulation, teamwork and grit. This program is strengthening classroom engagement and preparing students for middle school athletics and life beyond FBA.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Have you experienced the personal call of God..."this Ezra"? Have you doubted God's desire or ability to personally call you?How do you handle situations when you are not the star or center of attention? Does your attitude or excitement for a project differ depending on your role? Do your engagement or attention levels differ depending on your role?What have you set your heart on pursuing? What are you committed to being good at? How are you actively working to grow your competency and proficiency?

Did you know Shadow Day is one of the most meaningful ways future middle school students experience life at First Baptist Academy? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers shares why Shadow Day is a key part of the middle school admissions journey, helping families move from imagining FBA to seeing their child thrive on campus.Joined by current students Collins (fifth grade) and Elliott (sixth grade), listeners hear firsthand what Shadow Day looks like through the eyes of student leaders who walk alongside prospective warriors for the day. From classrooms and electives to friendships and faith, this conversation highlights how Shadow Day reflects FBA’s commitment to being a community where students are known, loved and encouraged to grow.This episode is a joyful glimpse into student leadership, belonging and the heart behind helping families make an informed, confident decision about the next step in their child’s educational journey.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Esther had no idea what was going on...have you ever been in that situation? How did find comfort, peace, and clarity within the uncertainty?Are you waiting to hear from God? Are you working while you wait and what does the work look like?What communities and relationships has God provided to assisted you in following him, understanding him, seeing his plans, and serving him? DO you take these communities and relationships for granted?Who provides clarity, encouragement and rebuke as you walk in the works God has provided for you?

Did you know enrollment at First Baptist Academy is growing like never before? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Mrs. Teresa Chambers shares how this growth reflects families placing deep trust in FBA to partner with them in faith-based education and student preparation for the future.With a 24% increase in enrollment in the post-COVID era and the highest enrollment since FBA opened in 1998 for the past two years, we are witnessing God’s grace in incredible ways. Looking ahead, school leadership, the Board and Houston’s First Baptist Church are prayerfully planning for expanded spaces and new opportunities, while remaining committed to small class sizes where every student is known and loved.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Has your work stopped? If so, for how long? What do you need to do to restart?Do you have someone in your life who is able and willing to give you Godly criticism and Godly motivation when you need it? Are you this person for others?Do you have someone in your life who is able and willing to give you Godly support and Godly direction when you need it? Are you this person for others?How do you feel and celebrate when a job is finished and finished well? What is the last thing you finished and finished well?

Did you know the entrepreneurship mindset at First Baptist Academy is for every learner, not just future entrepreneurs? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Head of School Mrs. Teresa Chambers is joined by special guest Mr. Stephen Carter of the Seed Tree Group to explore how FBA is intentionally equipping Generation Alpha for an unknown future. They discuss how growth mindset, grit, opportunity seeking and redefining failure are woven seamlessly into the academic experience, empowering students to engage deeply in learning and persevere toward long-term goals rather than instant gratification. Grounded in faith and inspired by Romans 12:2, this conversation highlights how FBA encourages students to reject a culture of fear, embrace failure as a powerful teacher and develop a mindset that prepares them not just for careers, but for life.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Are you currently fighting against any opposition or adversaries?Deceit? Have you let someone "build with" who shouldn't be? Discouragement? From who, where?Fear? From who, what?False Accusations? From who, how?Power? From who, how?Force? From who, how?In what ways are you seeking wisdom and discernment from God to battle the opposition in your life?For you, is the work currently stopped? What do you need to restart?

Did you know our middle school students at First Baptist Academy have a dedicated day to explore their interests, try something new and build community? In this episode of Warrior Wisdom: A Day in the Life at FBA, Head of School Teresa Chambers is joined by Middle School Dean of Student Support Mr. Soontiraratn to share an inside look at Warriors Explore. Learn how this unique enrichment day broke from the regular routine and encouraged curiosity through special-interest activities designed by our faculty and staff. Warriors Explore is all about discovery, connection and celebrating the joy of learning together.

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

What things cause you to lose sight of God's plans for your life?What is first in your life? If it is not God, what do you need to change to put him first?What is the next right thing you should be doing? Do you have a plan for accomplishing God's will for your life?What is a victory you should stop and celebrate?

A 20-week devotional on We Are FBA looking at First Baptist Academy's mission statement, core values, Portrait of a Graduate and characteristics of professional excellence.

Do you believe God has specific plans for you? Has he moved you to join your "everyone" as part of his plan?Has God used surprising people, circumstances to accomplish his plans for you?How do you respond when God uses the wrong person to tell you the right thing?How has God provided for you to accomplish his plans? How has he asked you to give towards and sacrifice for his plans for you?

Discussion Questions:Do you know your calling? Can you write it down as clearly as Paul describes Timothy's?Do you have a Paul in your life? Is God calling you to be Paul in someone else's life?Knows youKnows your callingKnows what it takes to fulfill your callingDo you have a Mark in your life (4:11)? Is God calling you to be Mark in someone else's life?Willing to assist, serveUseful in fulfilling your callingIs there one thing in particular from our study of 1-2 Timothy that God used to stir you to find, fulfill, or finish your calling?

Discussion Questions:Do you delight in God's Word?Does your delight lead to giving it your attention?Does your attention lead to gaining in understanding?Does your understanding lead to obeying its commands?Does your obedience lead to walking in the power of godliness?

Discussion Questions:How do you see the culture teach individual agency in calling and vocation? How do you see it creeping into the church or even your students at FBA?Have you ever struggled with the "greatness" or "commonness" of your calling?How are you using your gifts and calling for the common good?

Discussion Questions:What effect does suffering have on your relationship with God? Do you find it difficult to express your questions or frustrations to Him?What are some of the spiritual and practical steps you use when wrestling with suffering? Do you have specific verses of scripture, songs, books, etc that you turn to when experiencing suffering?Who do you turn to when wrestling with suffering? How have they helped you to endure when suffering? Have you personally experienced a form of opposition, mockery, or mistreatment because of your Christian faith? How did you react?