As Dorothy begins her journey to the Land of Oz, she happens upon a scarecrow, “just hangin’ around” .  She begins to talk with the Scarecrow, and discovers “he can’t make up his mind, because he doesn’t have a brain”.  Do we sometimes talk like the Scarecrow, putting ourselves down, basically calling ourselves stupid?  Or, perhaps, there may be those in your life, sometimes, unfortunately, your parents or friends, who say you are dumb—that you don’t know anything,  Ever heard, “Use your brain for what God gave you one for”?   Oftentimes, these words we hear or tell ourselves will indelibly leave a mark.  We’ ll soon believe “we won’t amount to anything, so why bother trying”.  But, I’ve got great news for you.  God’s word is better!     

 Proverbs 2:  ⁹ Then you will understand what is right and just
       and fair—every good path.

 ¹⁰ For wisdom will enter your heart,
       and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

Book knowledge is great, but “heart” knowledge is better for eternal purposes.  Proverbs contains numerous scriptures regarding knowledge and wisdom.  This book was written (for the most part) by King Solomon, one of the wisest people who ever lived.  Since Proverbs contains 31 chapters, I know some pastors or spiritual leaders who have recommended reading one chapter of Proverbs a day each month.  Some great words of wisdom and disciplines can be gleaned from these truths.

Now, please don’t go and tell your parents that you’re finished with school, because you really don’t need book knowledge anymore—that’s not what I’m saying.  God wants us to be wise in all areas.  We need a good education in order to become more successful in the marketplace.  Some individuals may have learning disabilities, so this would not apply.  But, if you’re capable of learning, strive hard each day to learn something new.  God wants us to “use the brain He has created us with” to its full potential.