Today, as an illustration of what is going on in the world, education at all levels has been multiplying, having as a goal graduating at the university level. In Guatemala, seven decades ago there used to be one university in the capital city and in two or three other important cities, with the formation of bachelors degrees in: law, economy, and medicine. If there was someone interested in other degrees, that person would have to go out of the country. In the present, there are twelve universities. Today, the majority of the universities offer bachelors, masters and technical degrees. To this we have to add online education that allows students the flexibility to go to school and work. If we read the word of God, Daniel foretold this phenomenon.

“At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever (…) Many will go here and there to increase knowledge” (Dn. 12:1-4, NIV).

Peter tells us: “The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray” (1Pet. 4:7). Paul states: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2Ti. 4:7,8).

While at a university, we seek to finish our degrees, which requires many books and effort. Unfortunately, that doesn’t give any peace and is not of use for eternal life. Solomon says that to making many books there is no end; we only need to fear God and keep his commandments. Paul says: “…guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith” (1Ti. 6:20-21). Faith pleases God and with faith we’ll be able to overcome the world. Let us also read: “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life” (Vs 17-19).

The knowledge of God leads us to forgiveness of sin. With this knowledge, one who is young is able to attain power and overcome the world because the word of God is here to overcome the evil one. We all gain this knowledge when we gather as a congregation to listen and to obey the word of God, because it was God who commanded to diligently study the scriptures in order to obtain eternal life.

Since we’re in the beginning of the year, everyone is worried about sending their children to school, each one to their respective grades; elementary, high school, and even universities. Some due to financial issues may move from a private to a public school. What really matters is maintaining the communication amongst parents and children because we’re living in a world that is under the control of the evil one. If you happen to send your child to a Christian school, there is a chance that aside from all that is taught they will also gain some insight on God and the Bible. If they are our children and we want them to be saved from this evil and perverse generation, we must work in unison with God. We need the mother to be a suitable helper to watch and pray for her children because they need the ministration and testimony of their parents. For this we need to love God and our neighbor, whom are also our children and youth. Remember: “Whoever says, ‘I know him,’ but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did” (1Jn 2:4,6).  In the households we must encourage the culture that is pleasing to God.

The world and its science are in decline. God asks us, as his people, to seek first his kingdom and righteousness. The world will end with fire, but to those of us who hear His word he tells us: “… If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn 15:5). God has prepared a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. Brothers, let us pray in order to remain in Him. Amen.