Being teachable means we are willing to grow, willing to be stretched, and willing to change. Some of us may be teachable in certain areas of our lives but unteachable in others. We all have our own struggles with teachability. We may hire a personal trainer to teach us how to properly exercise or take cooking classes to learn how to bake desserts.
But, if, for example, our work is struggling, our marriage is failing, or our money is tight, we would rather deny that there is a problem than seek counsel and get help. May this not be the case for us as Christians. May we be teachable in all areas of our lives because this is God’s expectation of us (Proverbs 4:5, 9:9, 13:18; 2 Peter 3:18). In fact, teachability is a prerequisite for walking closely with God. Let’s ask the Lord today to help us cultivate a teachable spirit.
Characteristics of Being Teachable
How do we become teachable? There are four essential characteristics that teachable individuals possess.
- They are humble.
- They are listeners.
- They are learners.
- They are willing to change.
Characteristics of Being Teachable: Humility
The principal characteristic of being teachable is humility. Teachable individuals quickly respond to truth and admit when they are wrong. Even though we may know some things, we do not have it all figured out and should, therefore, graciously accept the correction and input of others (Proverbs 9:8). We may be very talented, highly educated, or hold a respectable title, but as Christians, we are to demonstrate that we are teachable by maintaining a spirit of humility (Matthew 23:12; 2 Corinthians 11:30; Philippians 2:3; James 4:6). We must surrender our situations to the Lord and be open to correction and instruction.
But how do we cultivate a spirit of humility? First, we begin by immersing ourselves in God’s Word. As we study Scripture, the Holy Spirit will convict us when we are not walking in accordance with His will. Second, we must seek the Lord in prayer by coming before Him every day, confessing our struggles and sins. By approaching the Lord in complete surrender of our flaws and failures, we will be much more likely to demonstrate humility around others. Finally, we are to accept that all good and perfect gifts come from God; therefore, all glory is due Him (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17; James 1:17).
Characteristics of Being Teachable: Listening
Teachable individuals are also listeners. They listen to the Lord and to godly counsel from others. First and foremost, teachable individuals listen to God as He speaks to them through His Word. Throughout Scripture, the verb translated “to listen” or “to hear” not only implies that we hear with our ears but anticipates that we will follow through with our actions. This means that we must not only hear and read Scripture, but also we must respond to what we hear and read with obedience.
Teachable individuals also listen to the godly counsel of others, realizing that the Lord often speaks to His children through people (Proverbs 11:14). Throughout our lives, there will be times when we are in need of “critical correction.” It is during these times that we must decide if we will be foolish or wise. Will we listen to godly counsel and be wise? Or will we be stubborn and foolish? Let’s become good listeners. Good listening skills will help us to deepen our relationships with others as we demonstrate we value them and are willing to learn from them.
How do we become good listeners? First, ask the Lord for help. Be honest with Him if this is an area of struggle. Second, memorize His Word. Memorize and meditate on verses in Scripture that discuss listening. Third, do not interrupt when others are talking. And finally, ask questions to seek clarification before responding.
Characteristics of Being Teachable: Learning
Teachable individuals are learners and are able to learn from anyone, even someone who is younger or maintains a lower status than them (1 Timothy 4:12). In fact, we can learn from anyone and any situation because we can always learn who not to be and what not to do if there is not something positive to gain. It is often easier for us to seek counsel from people we do not know rather than learn from people who really know us. But, would not it be wise to seek godly advice from those who know us best before making a major decision? Remember, teachable individuals are able to learn from anyone, even those closest to them.
Our commitment to learning God’s Word and learning from others should be strong so that we might become all He wants us to be. In Scripture, we are told that the foolish person despises wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7), but the wise acquire knowledge (Proverbs 18:15). May we be wise and seek instruction so that we might become the best that we can be.
So, how do we become learners? First, we must have a respectful fear of the Lord. Proverbs 1:7 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” When we fear the Lord, we ultimately respect Him enough to submit to His will. As we fear Him by learning His will and living in accordance with His ways, we will gain discernment and insight for life.
Second, we must become readers. We must read consistently, as this will ensure that we will be on a “course of continuous learning and improvement.” Third, we should strive to attend classes and conferences, at least one or more, every year. Finally, let’s determine to stay connected with godly friends, colleagues, and our church. We should also consider getting a mentor.
Characteristics of Being Teachable: Changing
Teachable individuals do not allow themselves to become content with staying the same. When confronted with truth from the Word of God or the godly counsel of others, teachable individuals take action and make necessary changes.
We must be willing to grow and change for the glory of God and the good of others. We can read God’s Word, attend conferences, listen to counsel, and learn from books, but if we do not apply what we hear and read to our daily lives, we are choosing to be disobedient to God’s command to grow in our knowledge and understanding (Ephesians. 4:15-16; Colossians. 1:9-10; 1 Peter 2:1-2). Remember, just because we are learning does not mean we are changing. We must take action and implement the truth we learn.
But what if things are changing around us, and we do not like change? We must ask ourselves, “Is the Lord allowing change to occur around us so that He might make changes in us?” Second, as long as the changes do not compromise biblical truth, we can pray, “Lord, help us have a change of heart so that we might be supportive of those You have placed in authority over us.” Third, if a change is being made that compromises biblical truth, we must ask the Lord to prepare our hearts and give us wisdom and discernment first before we initiate any confrontation.
How can we get to the point where we are willing to change? First, stay in God’s Word. Do not neglect Bible study. As we read and study God’s Word, the Holy Spirit will convict us regarding changes we need to make. Second, pray. We must ask the Lord to search us, know us, cleanse us, and help us change (cf. Psalm 139:23-24). Third, we must stay accountable. We should find someone we trust and regularly meet with them, allowing them the privilege to ask us tough questions. Finally, we should create a “to-do list” based on the steps we need to take to change.
Not everyone is teachable. What about you? Do you have these characteristics of being teachable? If not, implement the following practices to become the teachable individual that God wants you to be:
- Spend time reading God’s Word.
- Memorize Scripture.
- Pray.
- Repent.
- Be accountable.
- Read at least one book each month.
- Set goals and work toward them!
Resources for further study:
Ernst Jenni and Claus Westermann, Theological Lexicon of the Old Testament, vol. 3., trans. Mark E. Biddle (Peabody, MA: Hendriksen, 1997).
Allen P. Ross, “Proverbs,” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 5 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1991).
The Treasure of a Teachable Spirit by Danny Hageman
How Do I Maintain a Teachable Attitude? by John Maxwell
The Benefits of Maintaining a Teachable Spirit by Devi Titus
How to Maintain a Teachable Spirit by Walter Bright
