Day 10: Lifelong Learners

Opening Scripture

Proverbs 1:5 5 Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance. (NIV)

Devotional Reflection

Even the wise are to add to their learning. Even the discerning need continued guidance. One of the temptations that accompanies increased knowledge and wisdom is arrogance. We may begin to feel that we know more than anyone else. But our training never ends, and we will always need teachers. Our devotion to learning from others must not be quenched by hubris. We cannot forget that wisdom dies in our pride. The moment we stop learning from others, the wisdom we possess begins to turn against us. We become like the religious leaders of Jesus’ day—full of knowledge, yet lacking understanding.

No one knew the Law like the Apostle Paul. Yet until he encountered Christ in His glory, he had no true understanding. Though the entire Old Testament points to one man—Jesus Christ—Paul was oblivious to Him despite his great learning. It was only when Christ appeared to him in blinding glory from heaven that his mind was opened. Paul was reminded that he was not God and that he did not know everything. He was blinded for three days, seeing only the image of God’s transcendence on the backs of his eyelids.

For those three days, Paul contemplated what he believed to be true about Jesus in light of what Jesus Himself had spoken to him from the sky. His humility opened his overly educated heart to a new understanding. Our pride must fall—and remain far from us—if we are to be lifelong learners of the Word of God. And how can we be truly devoted to the Lord if we don't seek to know His mind given to us through the teaching of Scripture?

The Examen

Where have I begun to assume I already know enough about God or His ways?

What practice could help me remain humble and open to learning from others?

Lectio Divina Scripture

Psalms 25:4–5 4 Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. 5 Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. (NIV)

Read the passage slowly, out loud, several times. With each reading, emphasize a different word or phrase. Notice what stands out and why.

Prayer Prompt

Lord, help me develop a practice of reminding myself daily that I will never know all there is to know about You, but my learning can increase until the day I go home to Heaven, when I shall know in full. Amen.