The Bible is God’s curriculum for educating His people. The Scriptures are “inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17). God’s word is our primary source of information in the classroom of the Lord.

But, there is another form of learning that must take place in the life of every disciple. It is coming to know the truth through consistent application. This is what James calls being “an effectual doer” rather than “a forgetful hearer” (Jas. 1:25). We call it life-application. In a manner of speaking, life becomes our teacher, providing opportunities for us to put into practice the principles we have learned from God’s word.

The apostle Paul “learned to be content” regardless of circumstances (Ph. 4:11). But, he did not learn such contentment merely by studying the Scriptures. Scripture is foundational. But, Paul did not learn to be content until life afforded him opportunity to experience “having abundance” and “suffering need” (vs. 12). After having experienced both extremes, Paul could look back and say that he had learned contentment. His spiritual growth was the result of taking advantage of life’s opportunity.

We also have opportunity to learn great lessons from everyday circumstances. Even our Lord “learned obedience from the things which He suffered” (Heb. 5:8). However, there are no short-cuts. Nor can we expect to draw proper evaluations independently from God’s word. In these difficult times, we may grow discouraged. But, keep in mind that this may be God’s opportunity for us to learn, through life-application, some of the greatest lessons we will ever learn. One day, along with Paul, we may confidently say, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Ph. 4:13).

–Glen Elliott–