Be Teachable
Be Teachable
Do you know anyone who embodies the message of the song “My Way” by Frank Sinatra, or even, still, another contemporary one: “It’s My Prerogative,” to impress their exclusivity? You know, that rugged individualist who’s “set in his or her way,” that friend or family member who stubbornly responds in the same way whenever challenged, “Hey, this is who I am! And I’m not gonna change! If you don’t like it, tough!” If you have someone in your life who feels this way and responds accordingly, how do you respond? What is your final word? I admit, I often think whenever I hear something like this, “Wow! Is this a sign of personal satisfaction, or perhaps a lack of interest in personal growth?”
Years ago, a friend modeled a way for me to pray for my daughters, who were little girls at the time. I prayed for their future mates. I prayed that they would be godly, teachable, and yes, kind. Through the years, I learned the wisdom in praying this way. But what exactly does it mean to be teachable? At a recent speaking engagement with local youth workers, I asked them this very question and loved their answers! They responded, being teachable means having an open heart, an open mind, open hands, and humility. Now that speaks wisdom!
What does the Bible have to say on this topic? Many things! Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no guidance the people fall, But in abundance of counselors there is victory.” Proverbs 4:13 says, “Take hold of instruction; do not let go. Guard her, for she is your life.” It sounds to me like the Lord places a high value on being teachable. Are you humble enough to ask for an open mind, open hands, and an open heart?
Let us Walk in His Way
Dear Heavenly Father, we know that true humility is found in acknowledging that You are God, and we are not. Because we need Your instruction to live lives that are pleasing to You and bring You glory, we ask that You give us teachable minds, hearts, and spirits to learn Your ways. Help all teachable hearts to grow in wisdom and become more like our Lord Jesus as we walk this Earth and seek to do Your will. Thank You, Lord, that Your sound wisdom is attainable to anyone who asks and believes. I believe this! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
by Corinne “Kinney” deHamel
author of “Walk in His Way” for
Carry the Light Ministries
