For many, this is not just a new year, but a new semester at school. It is the time where we struggle to get back into the regular routine of our schedule and school. It is amazing how a short break can derail almost the entire process of just getting up in the morning, getting dressed and properly groomed. This problem is compounded by the cold weather which makes even the moving of the cover off of us as a first step an uncomfortable exercise. The battle to begin the new semester must be hard fought in order to overcome our lack of motivation and the time we had away from our regular rhythms. As G.K. Chesterton said,
"No man who worships education has got the best out of education.... Without a gentle contempt for education no man's education is complete."
It is the steady discipline of school that is meant to help shape us and affords us the gift that is education. Most do not see school as a gift but rather as an unbearable burden.
However, we must remind ourselves that we are to love God with our minds. I find that it is steady discipline over time that has the greatest effect on us in life. In watching my children, I am reminded that the singing of the alphabet song over and over in the car has led to reading and brought incredible joy and discussion to our family. If you are in school, it is difficult to step back and asses what impact your current studies will have on your future and worldview.
The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet. – Aristotle
Most students agree with Pink Floyd – "We don't need no education." The grammar alone should point to the need for it... Don't neglect loving God with your mind because you are commanded to so in the scripture. Check your heart and your motivations. Do you neglect your studies because:
You are rebellious and do not want to submit to authority.
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” (Romans 13:1, ESV)
You don't like a teacher and withhold your best effort to punish them.
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” (Romans 13:1, ESV)
You are lazy and desire your personal comfort more than obedience.
“The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.” (Proverbs 21:25, ESV)
You are afraid to fail so you don't try.
“You shall be hidden from the lash of the tongue, and shall not fear destruction when it comes.” (Job 5:21, ESV)
You have a reputation for not applying yourself you are trying to maintain.
“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” (Proverbs 22:1, ESV)
You are seeking the approval of others.
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (Galatians 1:10, ESV)
What kind of student you are does not determine your value. However, the condition of your heart toward school is made evident through your words and actions. How do you speak of school, your teachers and your fellow classmates.
“The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45, ESV)
Love God with your mind and obey those in authority over you. It is a new semester after all...