Knowing Is Half The Battle

In school, we are taught many different things. We learn how to read. We learn the mathematical formulas necessary to calculate problems. We learn scientific facts and historical information. All of what we learn is in one way or the other a form of memorized fact. As we go through school, we are tested to determine the things that we have learned. With all the testing that is done, rarely does someone take an accurate account of what we know. After all, knowing is only half the battle. The other half is understanding.

Proverbs 2:6 says 

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

This scripture illuminates a deficit in how we approach learning. Knowledge and understanding go hand in hand. Far too many times we accept one without even seeking the other. We believe that knowing something be it a mathematical equation, a piece of historical information, or even a scripture is something to be proud of. Think about it. When we are young, we are rewarded for being able to recite information. 2+2=4. The capital of Florida is Tallahassee. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son. With each recitation comes some form of encouragement or a tangible token because we have demonstrated what we know. This is a great beginning for a child, but without gaining an understanding the individual is limited to only having won half the battle.

Consider how many of us still operate in this manner in both our natural and spiritual lives. We seek out knowledge for knowledge sake. We exalt ourselves by showing off how much information we can recite. But how many of us truly seek to understand the things that we are so proud to say we know? How many of us seek wisdom from God? How many of us are patient enough to sit at His feet to hear the Lord impart both knowledge and understanding?

Adayinthelife :-)