We can learn from anyone—our enemies, kids, friends, and many others. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar talk about having opportunities to learn from the people God places in our lives, but if we aren’t actively looking for these opportunities, we miss out on valuable lessons. If a person isn't worshiping the true and living God, they often end up worshiping themselves. A significant reason leaders fall is that they don’t believe they can. Believers often treat sin lightly but we should treat it with seriousness.
One major obstacle to being teachable is the self-perception that we cannot be wrong, especially on topics we know well. How wise it would be to stop, hear, and truly listen. The Bible is the word of the living God, and meditating and praying on the scripture can bring new insights. When it comes to seeking counsel, many Christians hesitate because of their image. This is why leaders especially need trusted advisors. The less we know, the more arrogant we can become; conversely, the more we know, the more humble we should be. The guys share personal experiences of being humbled after feeling overly confident. A good question to ask yourself is, "What do I not know?" Look for opportunities to gain wisdom and be a collector of it.
For those who realize they lack wisdom, there are practical steps to become more teachable. With today's access to information, there's no excuse for not finding what you need—be diligent with your time. Look at where you spend your time and who you surround yourself with. Walk with the wise to raise your own wisdom. We tend to focus on things like social media instead of the Bible. Reorient your life to seek wisdom from the Bible first. Even if you can't find a one-on-one mentor, you can still surround yourself with people who are where you want to be. It might not be full-blown discipleship, but even a conversation over coffee can be beneficial. If personal mentorship isn’t feasible, be discipled by books. Solid, sound books can be reread, highlighted, and memorized.
Approach the Bible with curiosity and ask questions. Cry out to the Lord, asking Him to give you a teachable heart and to provide the resources you need. Pride is a destroyer that misleads; being open to instruction and maintaining a teachable spirit is crucial. Fellowship with other believers facilitates mutual learning and growth. Encourage and pray for one another, and it will transform your life. By cultivating a teachable spirit and seeking wisdom, you set yourself on a path to becoming wiser and more humble in your latter years.
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Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.
You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro
The Living Waters Podcast