Lifelong learning. That’s a worthwhile goal.
Schools have been in session for several months now. Classrooms are busy places with students diligently studying and teachers working hard to keep learning as the focus.
I appreciate the work of those that often goes unnoticed at schools. Custodians, secretaries, school bus drivers and others all make for a smoother operation of educating the students.
I recently talked to a friend from high school. After retiring as a shop teacher, he began carving totems and house panels. These are large projects that require knowledge of the Native clan emblems and expertise with carving tools. He is recognized as a master carver, with apprentices working under him. When I complimented him on his success, he replied, “Well, I just keep chipping away at it.” Quite an understatement.
Sometimes learning is like that. We pick up a skill a little at a time. Driving a car, flying an airplane; both are a bit intimidating to start with. A little at a time, proficiency will come with practice until the license is obtained. Even then, it is just a license to learn more.
The Lord Jesus gave many invitations and opportunities to receive from him. “Come unto me,” he said, and “I will give you rest.” We can know that rest when we lay aside the burdens that keep us from coming to Jesus. He added, “Learn of me.” There is much to learn and experience of the blessings he has to offer. Peace and comfort in his presence can’t be measured.
Paul in the Bible was a missionary and mentor to many. We benefit from his letters to the churches and workers, which make up almost half of the New Testament. He told Timothy to continue in what he learned, considering who he learned it from. He learned faith from his grandmother and his mother. Paul reminded him, “from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” Learning and living the truths from scripture produces positive results.
The divine plan is that all should be saved and “come to the knowledge of the truth.” Truth is personified in Jesus Christ. He declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” This isn’t boastful arrogance, but a means for us to find all of those things and more in him.
Wisdom and understanding can be gained along with learning. King Solomon asked God for wisdom to lead the people. The Lord made him the wisest king and gave him the riches and power he didn’t request. He later wrote in Proverbs, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”
This age of knowledge keeps getting more accessible with the internet and now AI so available. Wisdom to regulate use is needed. Don’t get caught in the “web” or “net” of improper use.
Learning, knowledge and wisdom can be applied in all areas of our lives. Knowledge on the job, understanding in relationships, and wisdom to make right decisions and set priorities with divine purpose will serve us well.
Mitch Glover is pastor of Sterling Pentecostal Church. Sunday services include Bible classes for all ages at 10 a.m. and worship service at 11 a.m. Bible study is Thursday at 7 p.m. Visit the services and sterlingpentecostalchurch.com.
