What to do to motivate a reluctant or apathetic child … you know the one, the one that is like pulling teeth from a horse to get them to complete the simplest schoolwork assignments without the eye- rolling and heavy sighs. Honestly, sometimes apathy just needs to be repented of as simple sin. Let the living and active Word of God, which is powerful to bring correction and reproof, help. The student can copy these each morning on a clean sheet of paper, and recite them to you, and commit them to memory, every day, until his heart has changed.
“So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’” – Luk 17:10
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. – 1 Cor 10:31
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. – 2 Cor 5:10
Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. – Phi 2:14-15
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. – Col 3:17
Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. – Col 3:20
And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. – Col 3:23-24
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God — a workman who does not need to be ashamed of his work. – 2 Tim 2:15
For teens or older students, add:
The parable of the talents – Mat 25:14-30