“These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11)

Today there are books, podcasts, and YouTube clips on anything you could possibly think about learning more about. Want to learn to make the perfect coffee art there are thousands of videos, want to develop your leadership skills there are hundreds of podcasts that you can delve into to get a deeper understanding. Want to learn on personal finances and go from broke to millionaire there are books that claim to help you. It is important to search and research the material to get a better understanding.

We must come with the right attitude with learning we must be eager to learn and willing to accept the new information. Often, when learning new skills there will be trial and error. We might not get it the first time but, with practice and patient we become even better with the skills.

When we search through material and stay open to what God is saying we protect ourselves from being misled. Far too often half-truth might seem like the truth but, there is only one truth, and it comes from God.
 
Heavenly Father, may we be eager to hear your word and be diligent to test everything by it.
 
Walking with you,        
Stacy Watkins

“Brothers and sisters, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we can appoint to this duty.” (Acts 6:3)
 
Pick-up basketball games are always fun. When you start playing with the same people for a while you get to know them and what they are known for. One person might have a reputation for dunking, while another might have a reputation for fast footwork always stealing the ball away from the other team. We are known by the works that we do some people might not have a great reputation if they miss a lot of their shots, they might get a reputation for shooting airballs. Our reputation can even proceed us even before we meet someone new for the first time because of the people we know and even hang around.

A person with a good reputation is often sought after because they are known for their work and are trustworthy. One way we know how to do good work is by using wisdom. Intelligence is knowing a tomato is a fruit but, wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad. Through time and experience we gain wisdom we also can gain wisdom from asking the one person who knows all things God. We can ask God for wisdom in tough situations and when we are making difficult decisions. We can also seek out friends, pastors, and people we know who might be a little wiser than us to speak guidance into the situation.
 
Heavenly Father, grant us wisdom to see the best course of action and the courage to follow your direction. Guide us in making decisions and help us to follow your will in all things.
 
Walking with you,
Stacy Watkins