Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.
Being teachable is the foundation of spiritual growth and Christian character-building. Having a teachable spirit means having the mindset of a lifelong learner. Regardless of age, those who grow in their spirituality and understanding of God are those who never tire of learning.
Whenever I put in even the smallest amount of effort to get through or achieve a goal; when I don’t ask questions, I don’t ask for advice, I don’t try anything new or different; when I blame others for my problems and when I behave irresponsibly; when I don’t admit my mistakes; when I don’t close my mouth and keep talking – especially when I’m in the presence of people from whom I could learn something; when I diminish and ridicule the successes and achievements of others; when I do not accept admonition and constructive criticism; when I am closed to all people, literature and other content that could challenge my opinion and attitudes; when I act like I’ve ‘arrived’ and not like I’m still ‘on my way’ – whenever I do any of the above, I’m showing signs of unteachability in my life.
Just as we cannot do without the Lord through the Christian life, so we cannot do without other people either. The lessons we should receive from them will be precious to us both in our efforts to grow spiritually and in strengthening our Christian character. A teachable spirit opens the door to wisdom and righteousness.
Lord, have mercy and forgive me for my stubbornness and arrogance. Open my heart for instruction. I want to know you even more and get to know your ways. Help me to show myself wise before Your face by being a person with a teachable spirit.