12/16/2025
Teachable and Thankful
“For whoever has [a teachable heart], to him more [understanding] will be given; and whoever does not have [a yearning for truth], even what he has will be taken away from him.”
Mark 4:25 AMP
Jesus Christ unequivocally calls His followers "disciples," a term originating from the Greek word for "learners." This designation highlights the importance of being teachable as a fundamental quality of Christians. The Bible clearly states that the mind is not a blank slate at birth; rather, it is affected by sin, which blinds, hardens, and distorts our understanding. This flawed condition underpins the apostle Paul's powerful instruction for Christians to undergo a transformation through the renewal of their minds. Achieving this transformation necessitates cultivating a teachable spirit—an attitude that is both eager and open to learning. Being teachable signifies a strong readiness and willingness to acquire knowledge, whether from trusted individuals like preachers or through various forms of media, such as books. Teachable individuals actively pursue godly, biblically-based instruction. In this context, the term "spirit" refers to one's intrinsic qualities, encompassing an attitude of receptivity to learning that is firmly rooted in humility.
Closely aligned is being thankful. Giving thanks to God is a way to show gratitude for God's blessings and is an important part of spiritual health. Thankfulness is a powerful state of being. It’s easy to feel grateful when life is good, but during challenging times, finding gratitude can be difficult. Many may see tough circumstances as excuses for ingratitude. To nurture a grateful heart, it’s essential to have sources of joy and reminders to focus on them in tough moments. The Bible encourages believers to prioritize eternal treasures. While it’s important to be thankful for earthly blessings, true gratitude comes from recognizing gifts that endure. When the Bible calls us to give thanks in all situations, it reminds us to appreciate both visible and invisible blessings. Our gratitude should extend beyond just words; it’s about adjusting our mindset and priorities. By expressing thanks through prayer and turning our focus from fleeting desires to eternal promises, we can always find something to be grateful for, even in adversity.
