I love learning new things. I had to learn vocabulary word in an English class. My favorite part of that assignment was the study of origins of the words. I also like factoids-those little bits of information that can be stashed for trivia games.
The human brain was designed for life long learning. From a spiritual angle, we were called to life long learning. As Christians, we are the disciples or students of Christ. We have come to him to learn. He teaches us how to live in order to please the Father.
Solomon instructed his son to, "Apply your heart to instruction, and your ears to words of knowledge" (Prov. 23:22). His words are a command. Learning about our Lord and Savior isn't a mere suggestion, but a marching order.
The call is to open our hearts to instruction. The heart can refer to the inner person. The term instruction can also be translated discipline. Solomon is calling his son to open his heart to correction.
Most of us don't like correction. It tends to be embarrassing and unpleasant. But our hearts are bent away from God and in need of correcting. The shaping of our hearts happens as a result of instruction and discipline. We must be trained how to live in God pleasing ways.
How are we trained? By hearing and applying God's Word to our lives. If we will listen and apply the truths we learn, we will experience growth. It is hard work, but well worth the effort.
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