I am not a schoolteacher but have an admiration for those who are. Like a sponge soaks up water, the minds of children absorb what is taught to them. That must bring smiles to the faces of teachers everywhere. When children get excited about learning, there is no holding them back. If asked, "What did you learn today?" some may say, "Nothing," while others respond enthusiastically about a study that caught their interest. They want to learn more. Abigail Adams, the wife of President John Adams, wrote these words back in 1780. "Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence." To me, the key words from that statement are "with ardor." Those students who are so eager to learn will spend time and energy on their studies. They are untiring, industrious in their search for knowledge.

We have been talking about students in our public schools and colleges and the things they may study. However, what about spiritual study? The apostle Paul told Timothy, "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15). I do not think Paul meant just a casual glance. He knew how important it was for Timothy to study. Timothy was warned in the third chapter about the dangers of the world and encouraged in verses fourteen and fifteen. Paul used the word learn twice in verse fourteen. If Paul had not felt study was important, he would not have continued to say what he did in verses sixteen and seventeen. Time spent in Bible study is as important to us today as it was to Timothy. When we study, we learn!

In the quote by Mrs. Adams, we find "with ardor." What does ardor mean? The American College Dictionary defines it as "warmth of feeling; fervor; eagerness; zeal." "With ardor." Is not that what the Lord expects of us? Study, seek, and search with ardor. Have zeal, an eagerness to find out more of what the Bible teaches. Did not the Berean brethren search and study? In Acts 17:10-11, we read of their having a ready mind and searching the scriptures daily. They had a zeal, an eagerness, and a fervor. So, as Christ intercedes with our heavenly Father (1 Timothy 2: 5 & Romans 8:34) can He say, "They study, they learn, they have such an eagerness," or will this be His thought: "They have learned nothing because they did not study."

Remember we will not learn unless we study; and we WILL give an account! -Route 2 Box 177, Belington, WV 26250. mrmrsl@meer.net

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