The Journey

By studying the scriptures we learn. By studying our Bibles we will become more capable about knowing when Satan tries to deceive us. By studying constantly and diligently we will grow to understand Christ and his message more fully. We will be able to learn more completely why it was necessary for Christ to die on the cross. We will also be able to gain insight into the cost of Christ’s sacrifice.

In Proverbs 1:5 we are told, “the wise hears and increases learning; and by understanding one gets wisdom.” Webster’s dictionary defines wisdom as “ the quality or state of being wise; knowledge of what is true or right; discernment or insight.”

Thus, wisdom is more than being educated in a school. It also encompasses life experience and the search for knowledge and understanding. Our studies of the Bible will also tell us that wisdom comes from God. Solomon prayed for wisdom and God granted that prayer. His prayer was heartfelt, honest and simplistic. It was offered in true piety and belief that it would be granted. God recognized the faith that Solomon had and the honesty of the prayer in that he desired the wisdom so that he may lead the people of his kingdom faithfully, honestly and fairly. Qualities that I am sure many of us desire to have also.

Now, it certainly is not my place to knock education. I am a person who loves to learn. I also love to read. I have four different bookshelves in my study. They are overflowing with books, so much so there are books piled on the floor and on top of other books on the shelves. The vast majority of my books are what only true bibliophiles would like in that they are of the educational variety: religion, history, science and medicine. I also have almost all of E.G. Whites books, a dozen bibles and several commentary sets. Some of my books date back to the early 1900's and a couple from the 1800's.

I also have three college degrees. So, I can truthfully say I am educated. Some might say over-educated. Does that make me wise? No. Does it help me in sermon preparation or studying the Sabbath School lesson prior to teaching? Perhaps, but unlikely. It does not mean though that I can be an effective teacher or a riveting sermon presenter. It just means that I am educated.

What will make me a better teacher or preacher though is knowing the Bible. More importantly though, it is having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. To get to know Christ and to have the indwelling Holy Spirit one must be in prayer and continuously studying the Scriptures.

Anyone can become a good speaker and teacher just by knowing Christ personally and have an ongoing daily relationship with him. It does not require a college degree. It does though require a personal relationship with God.

And that is what each of us wants to achieve when they begin their journey with Christ. To achieve a ongoing

daily

personal relationship with Christ.

When I attended La Sierra College I lived in the dormitory my freshman year. As students attending the school we were all required to attend Thursday Worship service. In fact, all the professors, staff and administrators had to attend Thursday worship. Believe it or not, attendance was taken of everyone when they arrived at the church for the service. Furthermore, we all had assigned seats and therefore we had to enter the church through specific doors where the attendance was taken. Dormitory students also had to attend Sabbath Service and Prayer Meeting weekly.