If you follow this podcast/blog you know that I teach visual arts and a few other subjects to high school students. In my lessons I often refer to other artists’ work or tutorials as examples of a particular technique. I enjoy learning from artists. In fact, I enjoy watching anyone who excels at what they do. Experts in a diversity of fields seem to share several admirable qualities. They are dedicated and disciplined. They identify the key factors of their subject. They develop original and creative approaches. They desire to improve and find time to practice. Finally, despite the hard work involved, they revel in their craft.
Do you admire any artists or experts? You can learn a lot from them by observing, asking questions, figuring out what works for them and why, applying the information you gather, practicing, and allowing yourself to make mistakes.
Learning from the best includes Jesus also. He is preeminent in every way that is significant. As God the Son, he always was and always will be (John 1:1-4). He has all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18). He has power over nature, sin, death, and Satan (Luke 8:22-9:43). He created you and dearly loves you. He is the Messiah who saves the perishing and is the only way to God (John 3:16, 14:6). He has brought God to people and enables anyone who believes in him to have an everlasting relationship with God (Colossians 1:15-20; 2 Corinthians 4:6; John 1:9-14). Obeying him brings freedom, peace, purpose, and life (John 8:31-32, 16:33, 20:21, 6:60-69, 10:1-10).
Everyone should get to know Jesus. He is more important than any other mentor. Learning from him surpasses any other skill, activity, or relationship you could pursue, because it determines your quality of life now, your impact on others, and your destiny either ruling in heaven or suffering torment in hell. You can learn about Jesus by observing and taking to heart what he said and did. The whole Bible points to Jesus, but the books of the New Testament more directly address his message and mission. Reading the book of John is a good place to start. As you study ask what’s happening in this passage, what does it tell me about Jesus and people, and how can I apply what I’m learning? Ask God to give you understanding. Then be open to change as he directs. Desire to be like Jesus.
You were made to learn, to change, to grow, and to thrive. Enjoy picking up tips and techniques from a number of experts in a variety of fields. But make your first priority to invest in what really matters and what has lasting impact. For that there is no one better to learn from than Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life. By God’s grace through faith I encourage you to follow Jesus and become like him. That is my desire and it makes all the difference every day.
If you are interested in discovering more about following Jesus I have written a short book, “Why I Choose Jesus” and a bible study course, “Footsteps School of Discipleship.” They are available to download for free at the Light Runner website.