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Intelligent people are always ready to learn. Their ears are open for knowledge.”
Proverbs 18:15 NLT
 
Recent national surveys report what was originally documented over 50 years ago. 65% of Americans believe they have above average intelligence. How can that be?  By definition it cannot be scientifically accurate that most people are above average, yet somehow most people believe it.  While I am not certain how people arrive at their conclusions, this week Proverbs gives us insight on how to gain intelligence.  Once again it comes through a cause and effect statement. Being ready to learn contributes to intelligence. 
 
For intelligence to be observed, it needs to be demonstrated.  In the academic world they demonstrate knowledge through testing.  In everyday life, intelligence is demonstrated by the application of knowledge.  And knowledge is obtained by learning.  Learning is then purposefully gained by listening.  There are a lot of words in the previous sentences and as careful as I might be, I fear I have created an “academic” exercise.  An illustration might be more helpful:
 
                   Open Ears > Listen > Learn > Knowledge > Intelligence > Demonstration
 
The intentional pattern begins with opening our ears and listening.  There is  much to learn, and this world would be just a little better off if we all would just become a little bit more intelligent!
 
This week, listen a little more carefully.
 
In His Hands,
 
John