Academic

<<educational, intellectual, learned>>

Academic knowledge can give rise to pride, thinking you know it all (1 Cor 8:1,2). There is a great difference between textbook, head knowledge or theory that remains dormant and unproductive and the practical experience that applies the information with wisdom and intuition, having a life changing effect in our lives and those we touch. Knowledge applied, makes a difference as it is put into practical reality. Academic study should not be an end in itself but serve as a vehicle leading to greater creativity, efficiency and effectiveness for the Kingdom of God and so being beneficial to equip you for life.

The wisdom of this world is foolishness to God (1 Cor 3:18-20). Jesus’ wisdom came from above (Jn 7:14-16). We too, should be drawing on divine inspiration while also utilizing the discoveries of our peers. Do others observe that you “have been with Jesus” (Act 4:13; Jas 1:5)? In everything, someone is more knowledgeable than I am, so I should learn from them (Prov 4:4,7). Paul said, “Continue in

Am I applying the knowledge I learn to my daily life?

what you have learnt...All Scripture is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim 3:14,16,17). Timothy was instructed to study to show himself as one approved and so competently able to pass onto others sound teaching and doctrine (2 Tim 2:2,15). “My people perish through a lack of knowledge” (Hos 4:6). Spend time studying and meditating on the Scriptures so your life is ordered by divine principles, which you apply to everyday living.

The message of salvation is simple and in faith needs to be received in the heart (like a child accepts things rather than trying to analyse the love and grace of God), then outworked through walking in obedience to Christ (Isa 35:8; Lk 18:16,17).

Be alert and wise to Satan’s goal of making you ineffective for God (1 Pet 5:8).