14The wise lay up knowledge, but the babbling of a fool brings ruin near.
17Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but one who rejects a rebuke goes astray.
Proverbs 10: 14, 17 NRSV
The contrasts of life sometimes astonish us. Here, the writer of Proverbs devotes most of chapter 10 to describing the difference between the wise, and the foolish. The ways of the foolish (lying, slander, laziness) are quite different from the habits of the wise. The wiser ones are described as being diligent, industrious, and restrained in speech.
Yet one of the main differences between the wise and the foolish is their attitude towards learning. The wise are eager to acquire new knowledge. The fools? Not so much!
I feel blessed in my life to have learned from some of the best educators, at every level. I appreciate all of my teachers who shared their love for their subject, and taught with enthusiasm and creativity.
I recently learned that my elementary school principal, Mr. Bud Sears, passed away. He was a good and kind man, who had just the right balance between a firm hand, and a warm heart. He modeled a healthy approach to knowledge for all of us at Washington Elementary School in Wenatchee.
A thirst for knowledge helps us in many practical matters, including running households, and businesses. Yet a desire to learn new things is also a skill which can help us grow spiritually. God is always eager to teach us new lessons of life. He is constantly wanting to impart new wisdom to us. We must however be open to learning.
What is your attitude towards knowledge, and learning new skills? I believe we can never stop learning, no matter our age.
What wisdom do you believe God is trying to teach you right now? We have had much time in the year 2020 to contemplate this question.
As we consider our answers, may our eyes always be open to what the Lord is trying to teach us, every moment of our lives. Lord, give us a teachable spirit, so that we might live and prosper in your wise ways…
Prayer
Lord of all,
As I awoke and opened my eyes this morning, may I also open my heart and mind to the things You want to teach me. Help me to be like a moist sponge, ready to soak up whatever You have for me to learn. Thank you, for You are tireless in Your desire to teach me Your ways. May I be a mirror reflecting to others the blessings and teachinsg You have given to me.
I pray this prayer in the name of Your Son, my Savior Jesus Christ. Amen
