“Intelligence is what we learn. Wisdom is what we unlearn.”
~ J.R. Rim
Never stop learning! Always be a rookie at something! The older the wiser!
The cliches about learning are almost unending.
We’re a society that values learning. And indeed, there’s not much substitute for education and life experience. Wisdom brings a certain peace that Jesus desired for all those who walk his Way.
But could it be that our deepest wisdom comes from the things we once believed as true somewhere back on the path, but no longer find true today?
Jesus spoke of this in the way he taught and told stories. He begins with “you have heard it said…”, then continues with “but I tell you…” The pattern is repeated in Matthew 5 starting in verse 21. It was not enough for Jesus to give new information. He needed to correct the wrong beliefs that lead people astray.
American pastor and author Mark Batterson says, “Unfortunately, unlearning is twice as hard as learning. It’s like missing your exit on the freeway – you have to drive to the next exit and then double back. Every mile you go in the wrong direction is really a two-mile error.”
As we study God’s truth, we may also have an awareness of certain things not so true. Sometimes they are easily spotted, and other times they’re ingrained so deeply that it’s not so easy. We need to work toward being Christ-like, while also rejecting the things that are not of God.
What is something you were taught, or once believed, that the Holy Spirit is now suggesting you reconsider?
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” ~ Romans 12:2