School is in Session

September marks the time when children return to the classroom.  As a school-age child, I remember the great anticipation I had to get back to school after the summer recess.  That anticipation was not because I had a desire to study, but because I wanted to be back with my friends, and I wanted to enjoy the many extra-curricular activities school provided.  Even though children may enjoy school relationships and fun events, the focus of school is education and learning.

When it comes to spiritual things it might be appropriate to say that school is always in session.  None of us will ever outgrow our need for education and learning about spiritual matters.  Ezra, the Old Testament priest, set the example for learning about God and growing as explained in Scripture. “For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel” (Ezra 7:10).

This verse suggests three aspects that characterized Ezra’s life which should also characterize ours as well.

1)      Specific Focus.  “Devoted” should be the task when Scripture is studied.  In addition, the study of God and His Word should be a priority.  We need to fully embrace God’s Word, have a strong love for it, and be focused on it.  Our commitment should be to learn all we can about God and His Word.

2)      Personal Application.  The outcome of biblical study should be the “observance” of the Word of God.  To observe means much more than simply acquiring knowledge about God.  To observe means to put into practice in daily living.

3)      Continued Involvement.  “Teaching” God’s Word to others needs to be an ongoing responsibility of all who study the Bible.  Whether you have the title of "teacher" or not, you teach by what you say and how you act.  In spite your age, God’s Word, when applied to life provides guidance and direction for you and for others.

Where are you when it comes to God’s Word?  Remember, your life is an example to others.  Are you devoting yourself to the study and observance of God’s Word?  My suggestion for you today is to take time to review the above verse.  Ask yourself, “What does God want me to do as I study God’s Word and apply it to my life?”  Don't forget that when it comes to Christian living, school is always in session.  Why?  Because there is always more to learn and put into practice. Your life will teach others.

Refections Based on the Actions of Columbus

Columbus Day honors the first voyage of Christopher Columbus to America in 1492.  Columbus had a dream of becoming a sea captain.  He took education seriously and learned as much as he could about everything – but particularly about the seas.  He didn’t let discouragement keep him from following his dream.  Using Columbus as an example, let’s reflect on what we might be able learn and to do from a Christian perspective.

1)    Have a dream.  The Apostle Paul’s dream of an ongoing personal relationship with the Lord could well be ours.  “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” (Philippians 3:10).  Does your dream include getting to know God better?

2)    Learn all you can – especially about the Bible.  Paul’s focus suggested that he knew the importance of study and learning.  “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (II Timothy 2:15).  Are you learning all you can about how God wants you to act and what He wants you to do?

3)    Realize that in spite of discouragement God will help.  The apostle Peter explains how to overcome discouragement.  “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (I Peter 5:7).  Are you willing to take every difficult situation that causes you to be anxious and place it in God’s hands?

Let’s use the thoughts about Christopher Columbus as a time to turn to the Lord and His word, the Bible.