Life in the physical world often carries deep spiritual lessons. That is why the Lord Jesus frequently used earthly examples and parables to teach people the hidden mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 13:34–35). In society, for someone to be called a professor or an academic doctor, they must spend many years in school, possess extensive knowledge, and gain experience through long-term research. In short, it is impossible to be called a doctor (academically) without undergoing higher education. However, there is another kind of doctorate known as an honorary doctorate. This is often awarded to a person who has made a significant contribution to society. Such a person may receive the title even without formal academic training. The Same Principle Applies Spiritually In the spiritual life, the same concept applies. It is possible for someone to become a teacher, a person of great spiritual maturity, even surpassing their spiritual fathers, pastors, bishops, or elders in understanding and discernment. How is this possible? The following Scripture gives us the answer: Psalm 119:99–100 “I have more understanding than all my teachers,for your testimonies are my meditation.I understand more than the elders,for I keep your precepts.” (ESV) When you reflect on these verses, you will notice something remarkable:The speaker is a student, yet he boldly declares that he has more understanding than his teachers. He has not graduated from their oversight—he is still under them—but his spiritual understanding has surpassed theirs. Though young in age, his discernment exceeds that of the elders. How did this happen? Was it because he studied more books than others?Was it because he had a special natural gift?No. He explains clearly: “Your testimonies are my meditation” “I keep your precepts” The True Shortcut to Spiritual Maturity This is the secret:Day and night, he meditates on TRUTH—the Word of God—and intentionally practices it in his daily life. He does not only know the Word; he lives it. He avoids sin and aligns his life with God’s commandments. This is what matures a person spiritually faster than anything else—faster than: Accumulating a lot of information Receiving many revelations Preaching frequently Teaching often A person may have deep knowledge, be a powerful teacher, or even a highly influential apostle, yet still fall short of a student who sincerely strives to live according to the Word of God. Jesus Himself emphasized this principle: Matthew 7:24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” How God Identifies His True Spiritual Teachers This is how God recognizes His spiritual instructors:Not by titles, not by popularity, not by the abundance of revelations—but by the fear of the Lord. The ability to fear God is greater than all other forms of spiritual achievement. Even if someone lacks other forms of recognition—knowledge, eloquence, or influence—if they truly fear God, they have gone very far spiritually. This is because the Bible teaches that there is no end to the pursuit of knowledge, but the fear of God surpasses all learning. Ecclesiastes 12:12–13 “Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter:Fear God and keep his commandments,for this is the duty of all mankind.” (NIV) Final Exhortation Let us invest all our strength in living the Word of God, not merely knowing it.May the grace of God help us to walk in obedience. The Lord bless you. Share this Good News with others. If you would like free help in receiving Jesus Christ into your life, please contact us using the numbers provided below. To receive daily teachings via WhatsApp, join our channel by clicking the link below:👉 https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaBVhuA3WHTbKoz8jx10 Contact:+255 693 036 618+255 789 001 312 The Lord bless you.