Amanda Cecil | Ep. 166

Planting Seeds You May Never See

Show Notes:

“God often works in those small, unnoticed times.” - Amanda Cecil

“It’s not our job to produce the results. It’s our job to be faithful with the opportunities He gives us.” - Amanda Cecil

Some of the most powerful moments in education don’t happen during the perfectly planned lesson—they happen in the “ordinary” spaces: snack time, recess, transitions, a hallway conversation, a quiet prayer whispered at a student’s desk. Jenny Copeland welcomes Amanda Cecil for a conversation reminding every Christian educator of a steady truth: faithful planting seeds matters, even when you don’t get to see the harvest.

Key Takeaways for Teachers:

• God often works in the ordinary moments. Some of the most meaningful spiritual conversations happen in unplanned spaces.

• Celebrate small wins. Small steps of obedience and growth are “mile markers” worth noticing and naming.

• Relationships open doors for gospel impact. Presence over perfection builds trust—and trust opens hearts.

• Faith can be integrated naturally. Conflict resolution, disappointment, and everyday challenges are opportunities to point students to Christ without forcing a “big moment.”

• Your example is always teaching. Students watch how you respond to frustration, interruptions, mistakes, and corrections—often more than they hear what you say.

• Don’t lose heart when you don’t see fruit. Your role is faithfulness; God handles the results—sometimes later, sometimes much later, sometimes in eternity.

“When you impact one child, you’re going to impact everyone that they touch later in life as well.” - Amanda Cecil

Resources Mentioned

Bible passages referenced:

• John 3:16

• Ephesians (making the most of every opportunity)

• Galatians 6:9

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest:

Amanda Cecil

Amanda Cecil is the Head of School at Liberty Christian Academy in Ohio. Amanda’s story with LCA is really special—she first enrolled as a third grader, graduated in 1994, and years later returned to invest in the same community that shaped her. She joined the LCA faculty in 2004 as a preschool teacher and went on to teach several elementary grade levels. Over time, she stepped into leadership as the Elementary Principal and eventually into her current role as Head of School. Her passion has always centered on helping young learners grow not only academically, but also spiritually and socially. Amanda holds an undergraduate degree in Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. Amanda and her husband have been married for 29 years, and they have four children—each of whom has attended Liberty Christian Academy.

Podcast Sponsor:

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.