SCRIPTURE:
“Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And God permitting, we will do so.” Hebrews 6:1-3
OBSERVATION:
Learning and retaining can be very intentional and focused, or it can be momentary and passive where we hear something but don’t retain what we’ve heard or learned. If we listen and learn intently with a focus of receiving and retaining, we will grow. However, if we hear but don’t listen, which means to internalize what we hear by dwelling and applying it in thought and even in action, we will probably not retain, learn and grow in what we hear. Internalizing the Word by studying the Word lays the foundation for maturity.
APPLICATION:
Furthermore, as to the application; becoming doers of the Word, beyond being just hearers of the Word is the key in receiving and retaining all that God has for us in His Word and His will. I recall there are times that I’ve read or heard, but realize that I haven’t taken the time to internalize and study God’s Word; and therefore, realize that I haven’t retain much.
It often comes down to my rushing in relation to time. I need to not let the world, daily life concerns and tasks minimize my time in the Word and keep me from dwelling on and studying God’s word, principles and life lessons that surround me. For if I am not intentional to focus in, this nuggets and truths will pass me by. Oh, I will hear, see and experience, but not digest, dwell and benefit.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, may I always seek to be intentional in the things of you that I would not have to go back and relearn or re-do. May I be able to move on and forward with the riches of the Lord that I hear, experience or see. May it be so.
