Scripture tells me God's word is living. It continues to breathe life into the one who searches. When God's word goes out, it does not return void. (Hebrews 4:12-13, Isaiah 55:11)

It’s September, the month that still fills my mind with thoughts of children heading back to school, even though my children are grown. The month still brings to mind images of students eagerly climbing on the school bus, carrying backpacks and lunch boxes.

My children began their elementary school days with full throttle enthusiasm. I’d assured them school would open the world to them. They were eager to learn what wisdom the teacher had in store. Unfortunately, as the years passed, that youthful eagerness waned. Distractions of the world claimed their attention. What friends were doing was more exciting than what the teacher was saying. Later on the students figured they’d learned all they needed to know about life. What more could an instructor offer?

September brings questions.

I wonder, what is my attitude about learning? Would I be compared to the avid pupil or the somewhat disrespectful attendee who has nothing left to learn?

As a new believer in Christ, I eagerly searched the Bible for God’s wisdom. I read Scripture and listened to godly teachers. I searched commentary for understanding. Now, many years later as a mature believer, would anyone refer to me as an eager learner? Am I still teachable?

The psalmist writes “Let me hear what God has to say. His words are peace for his people. But let them not turn back to folly.” (from Psalm 85:8)

When was the last time God’s word made a permanent change in me? When did I do an about-face in living? As a good Christian, I pick up my Bible every day. But do I consistently return to the comfortable bits or search out the wisdom of the more convicting Scripture? When have I found wisdom that has forced me to change a treasured way of life. When have I discovered my habits to be contrary to God’s word?

This from Psalm 119:130. God’s word gives light and understanding to the simple.

He knows I am simple. Never more so than when I consider myself wise. “For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight.” 1 Corinthians 3:19 NIV

Psalm 119:131 speaks of the psalmist panting for the Lord’s commandments. Have I experienced that deep desire lately?
When is the last time I woke up before dawn so I would have uninterrupted time to meditate on God’s word? (Psalm 119:148)
The young prophet, Samuel was advised to say, “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:9 NIV

Am I eager? Am I still listening?




For your recreational reading.