I really enjoy learning. Don’t you? God has given us these minds that can take in so much information. The problem is we forget it REALLY fast. I think back to some of the subjects in school that I was pretty darn good at: Geometry, English, Physics. Just kidding, I wasn’t great at physics. Maybe you were though! And while I took tests and initially remembered information regarding The Count of Monte Cristo, if you asked me today what were its main themes, I'd have nothing for you.
NATURAL TENDENCIES
Think for a second with me about the times in your life you learned something and THRIVED. You have natural tendencies to pick up some subjects with ease. Others, you would prefer to stare at a pile of dust before approaching. Taxes anyone? (Special thanks to Caleb Smith for delivering me out of the depths of anguish that exist in doing taxes.)
Some of us have a harder time learning than others. My teacher friends would say “Amen!” to that as they encounter different learning styles and challenges. I struggle to read in a straight line. I use that pointer finger to stay on track. Anyone else?
So, how does God want us to use these imperfect minds? How should we think about learning?
I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to follow some set plan to be successful in the learning and growth God has for you. There isn’t a one size fits all, but there are some general principles we can keep in mind. Through scripture, God tells us over and over to remember. He knows how forgetful we are and how we are “prone to wander.” We learn things and forget. We must keep learning in the season He has given us.
ASSESS YOUR SEASON
One woman may have a lot of time to dedicate to reading and filling her mind with concepts and ideas, while another is barely squeaking out a chapter of a book in a month. Have an honest conversation with God about what learning He is calling you to in this season. Study your Bible, sister. We need to know it so we can stand on truths when things around us are crumbling. Someone can tell you “God is with you,” but knowing where the Bible says “He is near” will anchor you (Psalm 34:17-18, Acts 17:27, Isaiah 41:10).
I’ve entered an odd season. After a year of being a mom to two foster daughters that have moved into their adoptive home, I’m an empty nester. While being a mom, I was one of those women squeaking out a miniscule amount of book learning, which is the type of learning I prefer. Instead, God gave me a season of experience learning. My sin was smashed up against my face each day, and my need for Him was clear. I don’t want to forget those truths and I want to understand how to think about them through scripture. Now, I’m in a new phase. I’ve always wanted to go back to school and, for several reasons, this has become the time. This fall, I’m starting seminary!
Studying theology will assist with my work in the Christian non-profit space, but maybe one day I’ll be a stay-at-home mom or work somewhere else in an entirely different field. Whichever path God has planned for my life, studying theology and knowing my Bible is going to serve me well. Having an understanding of God and His word will serve you too, no matter what your life looks like.
Now, I’m not telling you that you need to go start a degree to use your mind well. Join a Bible study, commit to a Bible reading plan, meet with a friend once or twice a month to talk about a passage. This fall, join others in the church in studying through the Council Road Institute.
I’ve failed so many times to do these things, but I’m going to keep at it because knowing my Bible helps me to know my Savior and who He says I am.
Meet the Author!
Danielle is a native Okie who lived a brief stent in Washington D.C.. She has been married to the man of her dreams, Caleb, for almost five years. Danielle spent just under five years working at Museum of the Bible, where she grew a love for creatively sharing the Bible with others. Danielle now works as a communications consultant and contractor for organizations with a gospel perspective. Danielle has a passion for the arts, specifically painting, and has a special love for her pup, Penny. Danielle and Caleb are proud members of Council Road and cherish opportunities to know and love God more through relationships and teaching in the body of Christ.