When it comes to understanding what the Bible has to say about learning, it’s important to know that the book of Proverbs is overflowing with wisdom and understanding on the subject. In numerous passages, we can see that the Bible emphasizes the importance of studying and finding knowledge, and continually growing in understanding. Indeed, Proverbs 9:9 says, “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.”
This proclamation is especially pertinent in the modern era when access to education and the means to learn are more readily available than ever before. Whether it’s through traditional methods such as attending a university or through the Internet’s vast selection of online courses, it’s never been easier for one to gain knowledge and understanding. The Bible conveys that learning has the power to increase wisdom, discernment, and knowledge and calls us to engage in it.
Ecclesiastes 12:12 speaks of the value of learning: “Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness to the flesh.” Many have taken this passage to mean that too much reading can cause physical and mental fatigue, which can occur if one isn’t taking the proper breaks and practicing self-care. However, it can also be seen as an affirmative statement about the importance of reading, as there is no end to the wealth of knowledge that one can accumulate through books and study.
The Bible also emphasizes the idea that knowledge should be used to help those in need. Proverbs 3:27 states, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” One of the great opportunities knowledge and understanding can provide is the power to serve and help others. In other words, knowledge and learning should be used for good, not for selfishness and harm. If a person is blessed with understanding and knowledge, they should use their gifts to benefit those around them.
Although the Bible speaks positively of learning, it also warns us of the dangers of knowledge and understanding without the proper use or control. Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Those who fail to use their knowledge properly will soon find that what they have acquired can lead to their own destruction. In other words, learning is important, but knowledge must come with practical wisdom and understanding, or it can have a negative effect.
Integrity of Heart
The Bible also speaks of the importance of having integrity in one’s studies and knowledge. Proverbs 11:3 states, “The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” In other words, we should strive for honesty and humility as we seek out knowledge and understanding. We should also strive for moral integrity when it comes to how we use this knowledge.
Before one embarks on the journey of learning, he should examine his heart and determine whether or not his motives are pure and just. Do we study out of a genuine desire to learn, or do we have another agenda in mind? Are we seeking to use our knowledge to help others, or are we looking to enrich ourselves? It’s important that we understand that knowledge without integrity has no real value.
It’s also important to maintain a humble attitude towards learning, lest we become complacent in our knowledge and forget why we chose to learn in the first place. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:3, “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” We must remain humble in our learning and always be open to expanding our understanding, lest we become too blind to see the lessons we can learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of others.
Love for Learning
The Bible calls us to a life of learning, but it does not call us to a life of servitude in order to gain knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 13:20 proclaims, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.” In other words, we should find and rely on the company of wise and discerning people as they model positive learning habits and help us maintain the motivation to do the same.
The Bible is likewise clear that love should be at the heart of our learning. 1 Corinthians 13:2 tells us, “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.” In other words, without charity, or love, knowledge and understanding are for naught. We should study out of a genuine desire to learn and to help others, rather than out of a sense of duty or obligation. Maintaining loving intentions in the face of learning can be a powerful motivator.
Joy of Learning
Finally, the Bible speaks of the joy that one has when he engages in learning. Proverbs 11:25 says, “The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” In other words, we should expect to be rewarded for the time and effort we put into learning; we should expect to be filled with joy when we engage in knowledge and understanding. Those who choose to learn will not only find it rewarding, but they will be filled with the joy of having the knowledge they have acquired.
Much of the joy that comes from learning is derived from the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from the endeavor itself. According to Proverbs 4:18-19, “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.” It can be a long and arduous journey, but eventually one can reach a place of satisfaction and security when it comes to their understanding.
Learning to Love
The last point the Bible makes when it comes to learning is the idea that we should not only seek knowledge, but also strive to develop a deeper appreciation of wisdom which transcends all understanding. Proverbs 8:11 proclaims, “For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.” Instead of just seeking a deeper understanding of our surroundings and the people around us, we should strive to cultivate a strong sense of wisdom and understanding that transcends the knowledge we acquire from different mediums.
In a similar vein, the Bible tells us that our understanding should be rooted in love and compassion for one another. 1 Corinthians 13:2 declares, “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” The bible calls us to strive for an understanding, rooted in love and grace, which can’t be explained or understood using just knowledge, but results in a deep appreciation of our fellow human beings and the beauty of the world around us.
Pursuit of Excellence
The pursuit of excellence is also a theme the Bible speaks of when it comes to learning. In Philippians 4:8, God tells us, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” We should strive for excellence in our studies and aim to live in such a way that reflects the same excellent character of our Creator. Our mindset should be focused on one of growth, development, and improvement as we strive to reach our fullest potential.
The Bible also calls us to use our knowledge and understanding with a sense of purpose. In James 2:14-17, scripture says, “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?” Our learning, then, should be used in service of others and to better the lives of those around us and our own lives in the process.
Balance in Studies
Ultimately, the Bible encourages us to find a balance in learning. Ecclesiastes 11:9-10 states, “Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.” In other words, wisdom and knowledge are important, but so too is the pursuit of joy in our lives. We should strive to enjoy life and indulge in the passions that bring us happiness and fulfillment, while also committing ourselves to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
In the end, the Bible has much to say about learning and its importance. We should strive to use our knowledge for good and for the benefit of those around us. Additionally, we should seek out wise mentors who can help us on our learning journey and guide us to success. Finally, we must strive to pursue knowledge and understanding with our hearts and minds rooted in love, charity, and joy.
