1 Why is it that some are able to remember and retain what they learn more than others? Psalms 111:10
Note: The first object we need to understand is that those who are highly effective learners, meaning that they retain and remember what they learn, understand this one concept. And that is to become active learners. Learning is not a spectator’s sport; it involves you to engage and practice what you learn. It’s an engaging process.
2 Why isn’t trying to learn by just listening to a lesson enough? James 1:22-25 (opens in new tab due to long verse)
Note: Doing is what helps us to remember. When we are just passively learning and listening, we are less likely to retain what we learn and forget those things that matter most to us. There is a saying that goes: “If I hear it I’ll forget it, if I see it, I’ll remember it, but if I do it, I’ll understand it.” Being an active learner involves being engaged. You don’t have to wait for your teacher or instructor to engage you in what you’re learning, but as a student we can take ownership of what we are learning and what we are able to engage in while learning which is what we are now going to be looking at.
3 How has the world been able to remember the words of God that were spoken thousands of years ago? Habakkuk 2:2
Note: Taking notes or writing down what you learn is one of the habits of highly effective learners. Taking notes is very essential to remembering what we learn. It is the best way we can interact or engage in what we are learning. People learn in different ways. For example, some are visual learners, some are audio learners or some might be kinesthetic learners. Some might not think they are able to learn just by listening to an instructor, but what they don’t realize is that by taking notes, they are engaging that kinesthetic involvement. Taking notes is extremely helpful when trying to remember and retain what you learn. Some might feel that taking notes isn’t necessary, that they need to remember all that they are taught in one sitting, but the reality is that just by the action of taking notes, even if you never go back and review them, it still boosts your ability to remember what you have learned. If you find it hard to pay attention while learning, take notes. By taking notes you become more engaged and able to pay more attention to what you are trying to learn.
4 God has promised to give us knowledge and clarity if we do what? James 1:5
Note: Asking questions is a tremendous way to learn. When you ask your questions, its a way to engage and be an active learner. Pray because of what the Lord has promised us. Turn your statements into questions. Instead of saying I have a bad memory, change it to a question: How can I improve my memory? When you start turning your self-doubting statements into questions, it will help you retain and find solutions to things you want to learn.
5 Did Jesus practice the habit of asking questions in His life? Luke 2:46
6 How are we able to strengthen our own knowledge while imparting the blessing of God’s word to others? 1 Peter 3:15
Note: This is a beautiful promise because it shows that we can always be ready to give an answer. A great way to continue being an active learner is to answer questions. Even if you are watching a video and the speaker asks a question, call back and answer. Engage because it’s for your best interest and to help become more engaged to lead you to be able to retain what you are learning. Sometimes when speakers are asking questions during a sermon, the majority of the congregation stays silent as if they were watching some movie, but those who are actually engaging are those are receiving the blessing and are able to remember and retain what they are learning. They’re answering the questions. As we have studied before, the best way to learn is to teach.
7 What natural and physical position did God originally form man in that affects the ability to retain what we learn? Ecclesiastes 7:29
Note: The Lord made man upright. All learning is state-dependent. And uprightness couldn’t be a better state to be in when learning. Our posture has much to do with how we learn. But many times we see others or even ourselves in a slumped or hunched position. When we do this, it causes us to disengage. Boredom, tiredness, etc.; these emotions are influenced by us physically. Many times we can influence our attention and our retention just by our posture. By shallow breathing, poor ventilation, and dehydration, it’s hard to engage and pay attention. Open a window, drink water, sit upright as the Lord intended us to. Your posture matters. How would you be sitting if this was the most interesting topic you have ever heard? Your motions influence emotions. Come with a state of expectation. When you get engaged, you can expect blessings.
8 What is the foundation that strengthens all of the habits of effective learning we have looked at so far? 2 Corinthians 3:18
Note: What You focus on changes you. Listen with the intent to understand. The art of memory is the art of attention. Sometimes we need to give ourselves permission to be present. The moment we start thinking of two or more things at once it brings stress which will overwhelm and shut down parts of the brain. Which prevents you from living your calling. This will help you change you and turn it into long term memory.
9 How do we find the most fulfillment in learning? Ecclesiastes 9:10
Note: If we don’t put our full focus into what we are learning, we will never fully understand, appreciate and live what we are trying to learn; and instead are wasting our time, rather than investing our time.
10 Who has the Lord sent to be our ultimate teacher and helper? John 14:26
Note: When you’re studying the word of God, ask Him questions in prayer and the Holy spirit will help you and show you the answers and bring back to your remembrance of things you have learned before.
In Light of God’s Word…
Is it your desire to become an active learner and retain and remember what you learn?
Is it your decision to apply these habits of effective learners to your own life and impart what you have learned, and will learn, to others?
Today’s Offer:
If you want an aid to capture the lessons, help you be able to take notes, have a process to document what you are learning; to Help you be intentional and engaged in the things that need to be done, and being present, then please consider ordering the “Live your Calling” Daily Accountbook at: Thearmyofyouth.com/accountbook
If you would like to help support The Army of Youth Ministry in giving, please visit: Championofyouth.com