"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."
Benjamin Franklin
It was five hundred years ago when Francis Bacon declared, "knowledge is power." This truism of old couldn’t be more relevant than it is today. As we acquire knowledge at warp speed via technologically instant accessibility, we have at our fingertips the ability to develop a greater understanding of the world in which we live as well as procure the foundational knowledge for personal achievement.
Never before have eager students had such abundant opportunities laid before them. As students of the text and of life, we can readily learn to make better decisions and increase our value in the marketplace. However, far above the knowledge that empowers us to earn and climb and shine in the eyes of men, is the essential knowledge that empowers the spiritual man found only in the study of God’s Word and through experiencing an intimate and abiding relationship with Him.
The Old Testament speaks to this kind of knowledge like this: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
(Psalm 32:8 NIV)
The New Testament speaks to readers instructing us to add action to our knowledge; and, with that action comes a promised blessing. “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
(Philippians 4:9 NIV)
Who could argue with Franklin’s quote – that an investment in knowledge pays the best interest? Never is that truer than when we fill ourselves - empower ourselves - by investing our time and energy into learning the things of God and putting that knowledge to action. That is knowledge that fulfills, enriches, and sustains us through every circumstance of life.
Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true [supreme and sovereign] God, and [in the same manner know] Jesus [as the] Christ whom You have sent.
(John 17:3 Amplified Bible)
Being a student has no end. We never “arrive”. Before us daily are vast reservoirs of knowledge awaiting our discovery and implementation: knowledge that can enhance and empower every aspect of our lives. And above all quests for knowledge, we humbly acknowledge, there will never be mastery of the eternal knowledge of the God who loves us. Let this, then, be the daily cry of our whole being:
“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths.” (Psalm 25:4 NIV)
May the God of peace be with you always!
Domenic and Charlie