A Few Words: James 1

Monday, April 6, 2015

Education (Elements of Existence)

The Wisdom of Solomon, by James Jacques Joseph Tissot (French, 1836-1902) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

How much better to get wisdom than gold,
to get insight rather than silver!
Proverbs 16:16

New International Version (NIV)

We were never intended to be dumb. God expects us to learn as much as we can about that which we pursue. Hopefully our pursuits are meaningful.

Education doesn't all come from book learning either. A college degree or not even a high school degree is a requirement to get into Heaven. We should pursue those educational goals if we have that opportunity, but keep in mind there is other knowledge that isn't necessarily taught in school.

Reading the Bible should be high on the list of the tools of the education we do on our own. And not merely summary reading, but study and rereading. Attending Bible studies can be a great help. Asking questions of those with greater knowledge can give great guidance to us as we delve into scripture. Ultimately, prayer is one of the greatest keys to accessing scripture. The Holy Spirit can open up passageways of understanding that will continue our spiritual educational journey.

We are never to old to stop learning. We are never too wise to stop reasoning and studying. Education is an important part of our existence on Earth. Consider our education in life to be a prerequisite to the continuing education we have to look forward to in the afterlife of eternal life.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 1:5

New International Version (NIV)

Saturday, April 19, 2014

Questions #atozchallenge

King David in Prayer (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24

New International Version (NIV)

Questions can be the beginning of belief and stronger faith. Questions can likewise be the beginning of doubt and unbelief. Our quest for knowledge and understanding is normal. God gave us minds to use for our betterment and not just empty vessels to be filled with data. We are supposed to think. Thinking often calls for asking questions.

David asked many questions. Some of David's questions were bold inquiries concerning the state of his life and the world around him. Other questions were contemplative searches for more knowledge and wisdom. When we are pursuing any education we are expected to ask questions. The questions we ask are doorways to greater knowledge which encourages us to do more research and ask more questions. The person who stops being curious about the universe and life is a person who has become intellectually stale and lifeless.

Non-believers like to ask questions intended to shake our faith and refute the scripture and the existence of God. If we have not armed ourselves against such attacks then we strengthen the enemy and make ourselves look foolish. We should expect to have our faith under attack even if it never is. Readiness will instill confidence and in the end might win souls.

Don't be caught off guard by those who question you and what you believe. Keep learning as much as you can. Always ask questions and seek the answers to those questions.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.