We have all heard the saying "old habits die hard". This has often been an excuse for people not to accept Christ as their Savior because they are convinced they cannot change. In the same way, there are many Christians who have become so accustomed to traditions, or the way things have always been done, that they close themselves to the idea that God may have something new in store. Whatever the situation, we are the ones limiting ourselves, because God isn't done working in us!

To move ahead in life and to grow—intellectually, emotionally and spiritually—it is important that we examine all our beliefs, test them, hold to the true and discard the false. Admittedly, this is much easier said than done, but it must be done if we are to keep learning and growing. Unless we are open to and willing to change, we get set in our ways and stop growing.

We don't read much about Apollos in the Bible, but he was a very gifted and educated man "with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures." But he only knew about John the Baptist's baptism. So, when Priscilla and Aquila heard him speak, they explained the gospel message to him more completely.

"When Priscilla and Aquila heard him [Apollos], they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately."²

The result was that Apollos was willing to listen, was teachable, made the necessary changes in his beliefs and teaching. Because of this, he became a "great help" to the church. We, too, can be a great help to those around us as long as we stay humble, teachable, and open to the work of God in our lives.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please remove all pride and obstacles that may be keeping me from growing. Help me to be teachable, and give me the courage to make necessary changes in my life where needed. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

1. 2 Peter 3:18.
2. Acts 18:26 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.