Preparation is Priceless

"A king rejoices in servants who know what they are doing." – Proverbs 14:35a (NLT)

Approximately every five years or so, knowledge in most major fields doubles. That means if you don't stay sharp, you'll soon be obsolete. Regurgitating the same lessons over and over means you're not learning enough. In order to know what to do (and what not to do), study those who've succeeded where you want to succeed. Admiral Hyman G. Rickover was the longest-serving active duty military officer in U.S. history with 63 years of continuous service. He said, "Learn from the mistakes of others; you'll never live long enough to make them all yourself." The following guidelines can help you graduate from where you currently are to where you should be:

1. Don't shrink away from people whose experience and expertise are greater than your own. If anything, learn from them! Peter writes, "As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." (1 Peter 4:10 NASB). We all struggle in certain areas; be careful lest your insecurity be misinterpreted as arrogance.

2. Don't try to impress people by seeking to be their intellectual equal. If you find yourself in a discussion that intimidates you, listen carefully, ask questions, talk only about what you know and listen attentively to what you don't. The next time you meet, you'll be that much further ahead.

3. Don't come to class unless you've done your homework. When God starts taking you higher, prepare your assignment, your wardrobe and your mind. Consult a trusted friend who loves you enough to tell you the truth, even if it hurts. If you can't find one, read up until you grasp the basics. Solomon says, "A king rejoices in servants who know what they're doing." The better prepared you are, the more opportunities God can grant.

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