Being a Lifetime Learner

Some time during my teenage years a speaker impressed upon me the importance of being a lifetime learner. Ever since then I have always desired to keep learning, to know truth, gain knowledge, and apply that truth and knowledge in my life. Today I read an excellent article in the September Ensign, "The Power of Diligent Learning," by Elder Jay E. Jensen of the Presidency of the Seventy. Elder Jensen gives four ways to invite diligent learning in our lives, the third is to listen and the fourth is to organize what you learn. He said:

"Further, listen not only to what is said but also to what is not said: the unspoken promptings of the Holy Ghost. Each is important. Hopefully, you are always sensitive to what is not said by the teacher. If you are, the Holy Ghost will tailor the message to your needs.

"Fourth, as you listen, it is important to organize what you learn. Take what you have heard, and then make it yours by writing it down and expanding it.... Generally speaking, until you can articulate what you’ve learned, you haven’t really learned it..." (Sep 2008, pg 27).

Reading these words reminded me of an experience I had last Sunday. At the very end of Sunday School the teacher said something that impressed me, I don't even remember now what it was, but it triggered a thread of thoughts which in turn were the answer to a personal trial I had been struggling with. I quickly grabbed my spiritual journal and wrote out those thoughts.

Over the years when I have used a spiritual journal it has helped me to personally apply what the Lord, through His Spirit, is trying to teach me. Listening and organizing our thoughts are great ways to prepare for personal revelation and to help us be lifetime learners. What ways have you been a lifetime learner?