Are you still learning new things?

Parson to Person

In the next week I will have youth from the church I serve graduating from three area high schools. I hope this isn’t the end of their learning, but that they will continue to have a thirst for knowledge and wisdom for many years to come.

We had our Affirmation of Baptism service at my church a couple of weeks ago. I love this day when our young people stand up before God and the congregation and say that they are going to live their lives for God. I always try to remind the students that the end of this time of concentrated study of the Bible and the Christian faith is not a graduation, but just a part of a lifelong growth in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

How about you? Are you still learning new things? Are you still studying God’s Word and growing in your relationship with God?

In Psalm 32 we hear God saying, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8) What great words! God’s teaches us in the way we should live because God loves us. He wants what is best for us.

Psalm 25 says, “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.” (Psalm 25:4) Growing in faith really is a journey along a path, with God showing us the way a little piece at a time.

Psalm 25 goes on to say, “Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” (Psalm 25:5) Truth seems to be a rare commodity these days. The psalmist reminds us here where we can find truth.

The book of Proverbs is filled with words of wisdom and teaching. “I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.” (Proverbs 4:11)

We learn more about God as we teach and encourage one another. This is where being a part of a faith community is important. “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” (Colossians 3:16)

Finally, St. Paul reminds us about what we do with God’s teaching. “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me — put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9) Take what you have learned from God, and what you will continue to learn, and put it into practice. Your life will be much better as you do this.