Worshiping God Is the First Step in Learning

by Rick Warren — May 20, 2020

“Start with GOD—the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning.”

Proverbs 1:7 (The Message)

How do you become a great student?

You worship God.

The Bible says it like this: “Start with GOD—the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning” (Proverbs 1:7 The Message).

The apostle Paul once told Timothy that the problem with many people was they knew a lot of information—but they didn’t know what was most important. In fact, Jesus told the religious leaders, “You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me!” (John 5:39 The Message)

One day, after your life has ended, you’ll stand before God. It’ll be your final exam. It’ll be far more important than any test a teacher or professor gives you.

At that final exam, God won’t talk about how you did in math or social studies.

He’ll ask, “Did you know me?”

How will you answer?

Talk It Over

  • How is it possible to be well-educated yet still miss the true point of life?
  • Why does true wisdom start with God?
  • How has your relationship with God made you better at learning in all areas of life?

God offers you a gift today. Will you accept it?

Today is the day. This is the day you need to step across the line and say to Jesus Christ, “I want to have a relationship with you.” How do you do that? Just start by talking to him in prayer. He’s listening to you right now! He’s already done everything that needed to be done. That’s why he came to Earth, died on the cross, and was resurrected.

He wants to give you a gift, and the way you accept it is by telling him in prayer, “Today, Jesus, I want to take the first step toward you. I want to get to know you. I admit I don’t understand it all. But Jesus, as much as I know how, I want to open up my life to you. I want to receive your gift for me. Replace my guilt with your gift of forgiveness, worries with your gift of peace, and fear of death with your gift of eternal life. Right now I invite you to come and make your home in my heart. I pray this in your name. Amen.”

If you just prayed to accept Jesus, please email me at [email protected] and let me know about it. I’d like to send you some free materials to help you start your journey with Jesus.


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