When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. – 1 Corinthians 2:13-14
Several months back, I was visiting my father-in-law, Harold, who was celebrating his 100th birthday. Before blowing out the candles on the cake, he was asked to impart some of his century-old wisdom. He looked down at the cake and pondered for several seconds. “I still have a lot to learn,” he said. Those seven words were his response. He didn’t elaborate further, he wasn’t trying to be funny. He was just being honest. So when I think of what being teachable looks like, I think of Harold.
What about you? Do you consider yourself teachable? Do you feel that you have a lot yet to learn?
I think we’d all agree that a teachable spirit is one that remains humble, open, and willing to learn from God. And not just when it’s convenient or ideal, but regardless of our own personal circumstances.
I think the Old Testament prophet Daniel exemplified this teachable attitude better than any other biblical figure (not named Jesus). When he was taken captive to Babylon, Daniel was surrounded by a culture that was foreign and often hostile to his faith. Yet, he remained rooted in God and open to His leading. Many of us can recall in the opening chapter when Daniel and his friends resolved not to defile themselves with the king’s food and wine. His decision wasn’t just a display of courage, but it was rooted in an enormous degree of spiritual sensitivity! Daniel was open to God’s wisdom rather than open to conforming to the world around him. His teachable spirit enabled him to hear from God, interpret dreams, and influence a kingdom far from his own homeland!
Then later in Daniel 2, we see his humility and dependence on God’s wisdom when he interprets King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. Daniel acknowledges that the interpretation did not come from his own understanding but from God. How many of us would be tempted to take credit for that instead of giving the glory to God?
This humility and reliance on God is a hallmark of a teachable Spirit. It doesn’t mean we have all the answers, but rather that we are humble enough to listen and learn from God’s Spirit living inside us. We recognize that our own wisdom is extremely limited, while God’s wisdom is limitless. We can be like Daniel in choosing to be open to God’s guidance, whether it comes in the form of a gentle nudge, a clear command, or a deep conviction.
Ask yourself today: Am I leaning on my own understanding, or am I willing to listen and learn so that God’s Spirit can teach me and transform my life?
Choose my instruction rather than silver,
and knowledge rather than pure gold.
For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies.
Nothing you desire can compare with it. – Proverbs 8:10-11
Former Blackout Artist 