I’m a learner. I’m sure I have shared this before. I love learning new things. In particular, I read a lot on the latest nutrition research, brain research, and exercise research. In fact, I just finished a book called Eat to Beat Disease. It’s a great read and resource. I also listen to a variety of podcasts including Berne Brown and NT Wright.
Lots of things interest me. I have dabbled in quantum mechanics and a variety of areas within nueroscience. Quite frankly, there is a lot of useless information in my brain. Most of the information goes in and nowhere else. I suppose this is a form of entertainment for me, but learning without growth is not what God intended.
20-24 But that’s no life for you. You learned Christ! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything—and I do mean everything—connected with that old way of life has to go. It’s rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life—a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you. 25 What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. (Ephesians 4:20-25 MSG).
Let’s be honest, there is plenty of things I learn about myself and God that should inspire change. God will often reveal nuggets of truth about my mental, emoational, spiritual and physical wellbeing through the books I read and poscasts I listen to. Sometimes the changes revealed are hard, uncomfortable or related to something I don’t want to face. However, I have chosen a life in Christ which means I have to through off the old ways and continue to move closer to the person I was created to be. When God shows me where I am being judgmental, I need to adjust my behavior. When God shows me where I am harming my health, I need to sacrifice my desires for His. When God shows me injustice, I need to take action. I am continually challegened with what I learn to be more Christlike. It is hard, but the results have been fruitful, greater personal wellbeing, greater compassion for others and more love.
What are you learning? Are you using it to become more like Christ? What is God teaching you that you don’t want to learn? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.