Introduction
Sometimes, people who were once approved are no longer remembered for their high performances. The reasons for this include their inability to upgrade or update themselves to meet the demands of the times in which they operate. Here, the need for a life-long learning is emphasized because it prevents one´s memory from decay and help him or her to stay updated.
Learning
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2Ti 2:15).
A person can show himself or herself approved through learning. Learning has been defined differently by different people but in this newsletter, learning is defined as the acquisition of new competencies, knowledge or skills. Learning takes place at all times. In other words, it is a life-long and a life-wide phenomenon. Learning is expected to take place in schools or in classrooms but it does not always happen that way. Learning does not end after graduation but continues until death.
People who commit themselves to continuous learning are able to positively affect lives. It does not matter what their expertise might be, acquiring knowledge in those disciplines is more likely to make the person stay relevant. Paul was able to perform well in his ministry because he studied most of the times. When Paul advises Timothy to study the word of God for God´s approval, he knows what he means by that. It is said of Paul, in his defense before Festus, that “Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad” (Acts 26:24).
Increasing Knowledge
“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning” (Pro 9:9). Wise people continuously seek knowledge. They learn to instruct or teach themselves. They invest in their personal development so that they can stay on top. They know that knowledge is in books. Though much study is a weariness of the flesh (Eccl 12:12), those who commit themselves to studying and acquiring knowledge receive great rewards. Believers ought to buy the books written in their areas of their gifts, potentials, abilities, and interest.
Also, Open University courses, Summer Schools, and short courses are great tools for acquiring new competencies or deepening knowledge in people´s areas of expertise.
Again, believers could also join professional associations or bodies in their field of specialties, subscribe to their newsletter and journals to help them expand their body of knowledge and stay upgraded to remain relevant in this fast-moving and competitive world.
Furthermore, since learning takes place through social interactions, believers would be helped if they would interact with people with relevant professional acumen. They could also attend conferences or seminars and seek to network with key people and institutions in order to learn from them.
Moreover, it is worthwhile to seek a Mentor. You would do yourself good if you can identify a person who is more experienced in your area of calling or potential and ask him or her to mentor you. Here, you would have to submit to his or her instructions to get the maximum out of him or her. It needs to be understood that people who are able to do well in their professions are those who have been mentored by more skillful people. Elisha was mentored by Elijah, Timothy and Titus among others were mentored by Paul, to mention but a few.
Conclusion
A disciplined life is an ingredient to learning. Knowledge is available to those who seek it because it is not gained without learning. Learning is a continuous process and it continues until death. Humans, therefore, need to explore all avenues that would make them stay up-to-date in their areas of calling or expertise.
Prayer: May God give us the will and the commitment required to study to show ourselves approved in the various areas of our operations. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. AMEN!