How can we apply the principle of learning from others in our lives? The Verse at the Center “Listen to me and I will inform you; I will recount what I have seen.” (Job 15:17) Eliphaz appeals to personal experience—“what I have seen”—and invites Job to listen. While Eliphaz’s conclusions later prove faulty, the underlying principle remains sound: God expects us to listen, observe, and benefit from the lessons He has already given to others. Why Learning from Others Matters • God’s design for wisdom is communal. “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) • Scripture itself is a record of other people’s experiences so “that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) • Learning from others protects us from needless pain. “These things happened to them as examples… so we would not set our hearts on evil.” (1 Corinthians 10:11) Whom God Uses as Teachers 1. Scripture’s authors — Moses, David, Paul, and ultimately Christ. “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching.” (2 Timothy 3:16) 2. God-fearing elders and mentors — “Remember your leaders… imitate their faith.” (Hebrews 13:7) 3. Peers in the body of Christ — “Let the wise listen and add to their learning.” (Proverbs 1:5) 4. Even opponents — Eliphaz’s flawed counsel still triggers deeper truth in Job, reminding us that God can teach us through contrast. Practical Ways to Put This Principle to Work • Read biographies of faithful believers; highlight decisions, turning points, and outcomes. • Invite an older Christian for coffee; ask how the Lord proved faithful in hardship. • Join a small group that studies Scripture together, not merely for information but for shared application. • Keep a “wisdom journal.” When someone’s experience speaks to you, jot it down with a date and Scripture link. • Verbalize gratitude. Telling a mentor, “Here’s what I learned from you,” reinforces humility in both of you. Guardrails for Discernment • Check every human insight against the written Word. (Acts 17:11) • Weigh motive and character. “Good fruit” springs from a good tree. (Matthew 7:17) • Look for Christ-centered outcomes—greater love, holiness, and dependence on the Lord—not merely life-hacks. Encouragement for Daily Living God never meant you to navigate life alone. Each testimony you hear, every biblical account you read, and every seasoned saint you meet is part of His provision. Open your ears, compare all things with Scripture’s unerring standard, and let the hard-won lessons of others accelerate your own walk of obedience. |
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