Learning is one of humanity’s most fundamental pursuits, and the Bible offers profound wisdom about the nature of true education and spiritual growth. Throughout both the Old Testament and New Testament, Scripture presents learning not as mere academic achievement, but as a transformative journey toward understanding God and His truth.
What Bible verse talks about learning? The most foundational verse is Proverbs 1:7, which declares that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse establishes that all genuine learning begins with reverence for God.
The Bible contains over 100 verses that address learning, teaching, wisdom, and education. These passages provide instruction and guidance for students, educators, parents, and anyone seeking to grow in knowledge and understanding. From Daniel‘s exceptional learning in Babylon to Jesus‘ teaching ministry, Scripture shows us that learning is both a divine gift and a spiritual discipline.
Part 1: The Foundation of All Learning – Fear of the Lord
The Starting Point of Wisdom
The Bible‘s approach to learning differs radically from secular education. Proverbs 1:7 establishes the cornerstone principle: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse appears in over 1,368 searches, making it one of the most referenced Bible verses about learning.
Proverbs 9:9 builds on this foundation: “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.” This passage reveals that true wisdom multiplies when built on proper reverence for God. The context shows that learning without God leads to pride and folly, while learning grounded in faith produces spiritual growth and understanding.
What does God say about learning lessons? The Scripture consistently teaches that God is the ultimate source of all knowledge and wisdom. James 1:5 promises: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” This verse has received 519 helpful votes from readers seeking biblical guidance on learning.
Key Characteristics of Biblical Learning:
| Aspect | Biblical Approach | Worldly Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Fear of the Lord | Human reasoning |
| Purpose | Spiritual growth | Personal advancement |
| Source | God and Scripture | Human wisdom |
| Goal | Understanding truth | Accumulating facts |
| Attitude | Humility and reverence | Pride and self-reliance |
Receiving Instruction with Humility
Proverbs 1:5 teaches: “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” This verse, with 1,576 helpful votes, emphasizes that learning is a continuous process requiring humility and openness to instruction.
Proverbs 18:15 declares: “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” This passage shows that true learning involves both the heart and mind working together to receive God‘s wisdom.
Proverbs 12:1 addresses the role of discipline in learning: “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.” This verse teaches that correction and discipline are essential components of biblical education.
Part 2: Bible Verses About Learning the Word of God – Scripture as Teacher
Scripture as Teacher and Guide
What Bible verse talks about education? 2 Timothy 3:16-17 provides the most comprehensive answer: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
This passage, referenced 607 times, establishes Scripture as the ultimate textbook for spiritual education. The apostle Paul writing to Timothy emphasizes four key functions of God‘s Word:
- Teaching – Providing instruction in truth
- Reproof – Correcting false beliefs and practices
- Correction – Setting right what has gone wrong
- Training in righteousness – Discipleship and character development
Romans 15:4 explains the educational purpose of Old Testament Scripture: “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” This verse shows how biblical learning produces both encouragement and hope.
Colossians 3:16 instructs believers: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” This passage demonstrates how Scripture facilitates both personal learning and community teaching.
Bible Verses About Learning from Each Other Through God’s Word
2 Timothy 2:15 provides practical instruction for Bible study: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” This verse, with 849 helpful votes, emphasizes diligent study and accurate interpretation of Scripture.
Joshua 1:8 reveals the method for successful biblical learning: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Psalm 119:11 shows the importance of memorization: “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” This practice of hiding God‘s Word in the heart serves as both spiritual protection and ongoing instruction.
Practical Methods for Biblical Learning:
- Daily Bible reading with systematic study plans
- Scripture memorization for heart transformation
- Meditation on God‘s Word throughout the day
- Group Bible study for mutual encouragement
- Prayer for Holy Spirit illumination
- Journaling insights and applications
The Holy Spirit as Ultimate Teacher – Never Stop Learning Bible Verses
John 14:26 reveals Jesus‘ promise about the Holy Spirit‘s teaching ministry: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” This verse, with 514 helpful votes, shows that learning Scripture involves divine assistance.
1 John 2:27 explains the Holy Spirit‘s role in spiritual education: “But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.”
John 6:45 quotes Jesus: “It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me.” This passage establishes God as the ultimate educator in spiritual matters.
The Holy Spirit‘s teaching ministry includes:
- Illuminating Scripture for understanding
- Convicting of truth and error
- Guiding into all truth (John 16:13)
- Bringing Scripture to remembrance
- Empowering application of biblical principles
Part 3: Bible Verses About Learning from Mistakes and Life Experiences
God’s Discipline as Education – What Does God Say About Learning Lessons?
Proverbs 3:11-12 reveals God‘s loving discipline: “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.” This passage, with 434 helpful votes, shows that God‘s correction is an expression of His love and a means of spiritual education.
Revelation 3:19 echoes this theme: “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.” Jesus‘ words to the church in Laodicea demonstrate that divine discipline is intended to produce repentance and spiritual growth.
Deuteronomy 8:5 provides the Old Testament perspective: “Know then in your heart that, as a man disciplines his son, the Lord your God disciplines you.” This verse establishes the parallel between parental discipline and God‘s corrective teaching.
Hebrews 12:5-11 offers the most comprehensive explanation of divine discipline:
“And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? ‘My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.’… For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”
Types of Divine Discipline for Learning:
| Type | Purpose | Biblical Example | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrective | Address sin and error | David after adultery | Repentance and restoration |
| Preventive | Avoid future problems | Paul’s thorn in flesh | Humility and dependence |
| Educational | Build character | Job’s trials | Faith and understanding |
| Protective | Shield from harm | Israel’s wilderness | Trust and obedience |
Bible Verses About Learning from Biblical Examples
Daniel 1:17 demonstrates God‘s blessing on dedicated learning: “As for these four young men, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” This verse shows how God honors those who remain faithful while pursuing education.
Luke 2:52 describes Jesus‘ development: “And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.” This passage provides the perfect model of balanced learning – intellectual, physical, spiritual, and social growth.
1 Chronicles 16:11 encourages continuous seeking: “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!” This verse emphasizes that learning about God is a lifelong pursuit requiring persistent effort.
Romans 15:4 explains how Old Testament examples teach us: “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”
Biblical Characters Who Model Learning:
- Daniel – Excellence in secular education while maintaining faith
- Moses – Learning God‘s ways through wilderness experiences
- Solomon – Seeking wisdom above all earthly treasures
- Paul – Continuous learning and teaching throughout ministry
- Timothy – Learning Scripture from childhood through mentorship
Bible Verses About Learning from Each Other in Community
Matthew 28:19-20 establishes the Great Commission’s educational component: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This passage shows that discipleship involves comprehensive teaching and learning.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 emphasizes mutual encouragement: “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” This verse demonstrates that learning in community involves both giving and receiving instruction.
Acts 5:42 describes the early church’s commitment to teaching: “And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.” This passage shows the importance of consistent, varied educational approaches.
Titus 2:1 instructs church leaders: “But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine.” This verse emphasizes the responsibility to pass on accurate biblical knowledge to others.
Part 4: Bible Verses About Education Success and Practical Wisdom
Seeking Wisdom and Understanding – What Psalm is for Learning?
Psalm 25:4-5 provides one of the most direct prayers for learning: “Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.” This psalm of David, with 556 helpful votes, serves as a model prayer for those seeking divine instruction.
Psalm 25:8-9 reveals God‘s teaching character: “Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.” This passage shows that God actively teaches those who approach Him with humility.
Psalm 32:8 contains God‘s promise of personal guidance: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” This verse provides assurance that God desires to teach and guide His people individually.
Psalm 143:10 expresses dependence on divine teaching: “Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!” This prayer acknowledges the Holy Spirit‘s role in practical instruction.
Top Psalms for Learning and Education:
- Psalm 25 – Prayer for divine instruction and guidance
- Psalm 32 – God‘s promise to teach and counsel
- Psalm 119 – Extended meditation on God‘s Word and teaching
- Psalm 143 – Seeking God‘s will and direction
- Psalm 86 – Request for understanding and wisdom
Proverbs 4:5-6 emphasizes the supreme value of wisdom: “Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will keep you; love her, and she will guard you.” This passage shows that wisdom provides both protection and guidance.
James 1:5 offers the solution for those lacking wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” This verse, with 519 helpful votes, provides hope for anyone seeking divine wisdom.
Bible Verses About Learning with the Right Attitude
Matthew 11:29-30 contains Jesus‘ invitation to learning: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” This passage shows that learning from Jesus brings both instruction and rest, not burden.
Proverbs 9:9 describes the multiplication effect of teaching the wise: “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning.” This verse demonstrates that wisdom and learning compound when received with the right attitude.
Proverbs 18:15 highlights the characteristics of a learning heart: “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” This passage shows that both intelligence and wisdom actively pursue knowledge.
1 Peter 5:5 addresses the attitude necessary for learning: “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'” Humility is essential for receiving instruction and correction.
Essential Attitudes for Biblical Learning:
- Humility – Recognizing our need for instruction
- Teachability – Openness to correction and guidance
- Persistence – Continuing to seek knowledge and understanding
- Reverence – Approaching learning with fear of the Lord
- Application – Putting knowledge into practice
Bible Verses About Learning and Growing in Faith
Philippians 4:9 provides a comprehensive model for learning: “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” This verse, with 884 helpful votes, shows that learning involves observing, receiving, and practicing truth.
Colossians 3:23 establishes the proper motivation for all learning: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” This passage shows that education and learning should be pursued as service to God.
2 Timothy 3:15 emphasizes early biblical education: “And how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” This verse shows the lifelong value of Scripture learning from an early age.
1 Timothy 4:12 encourages young learners: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” This passage shows that learning should result in exemplary character regardless of age.
Part 5: Bible Verses About Learning and Education – Teaching Others
Our Responsibility to Teach Others – Never Stop Learning Bible Verse Principles
Deuteronomy 31:13 establishes the educational responsibility toward the next generation: “And that their children, who have not known it, may hear and learn to fear the Lord your God, as long as you live in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.” This verse emphasizes ongoing educational responsibility.
Proverbs 22:6 provides one of the most quoted Bible verses about education: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” With 762 helpful votes, this passage emphasizes the lasting impact of early education and training.
Ephesians 6:4 addresses parental teaching responsibility: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” This verse shows that biblical education should be both corrective and instructive without being harsh or discouraging.
Titus 3:14 connects learning with practical service: “And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.” This passage demonstrates that biblical learning should result in practical Christian living.
Biblical Teaching Principles:
| Principle | Scripture Reference | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Start Early | Proverbs 22:6 | Begin spiritual education in childhood |
| Be Consistent | Deuteronomy 6:7 | Teach diligently at all times |
| Model Truth | 1 Timothy 4:12 | Live what you teach |
| Use Patience | 2 Timothy 2:24 | Be gentle and patient in instruction |
| Trust God | 1 Corinthians 3:6 | God gives the growth in learning |
Bible Verses About Learning in Family Relationships and Education
Proverbs 1:8-9 emphasizes the importance of parental instruction: “Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.” This passage shows that family education provides both beauty and protection.
Proverbs 6:20 reinforces this theme: “My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.” This verse demonstrates the equal importance of both paternal and maternal instruction.
Proverbs 23:22 addresses ongoing respect for parental teaching: “Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.” This passage shows that family learning relationships continue throughout life.
Ephesians 6:1-3 provides the New Testament perspective on family education: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ (this is the first commandment with a promise), ‘that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.'”
Family Learning Dynamics:
- Parents as primary teachers of spiritual truth
- Children as willing learners with respectful attitudes
- Mutual respect across generations in learning
- Practical application of biblical principles
- Lifelong learning relationships within families
Mentorship and Discipleship in Biblical Education
Matthew 28:19-20 establishes the discipleship model of teaching: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
2 Timothy 2:2 shows the multiplication principle in discipleship: “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” This verse demonstrates how biblical learning should reproduce through faithful teaching.
Philippians 4:9 provides Paul’s model for mentorship: “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” This passage shows that mentorship involves both teaching and modeling.
1 Timothy 4:12 encourages young leaders in teaching: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” This verse shows that teaching through example is powerful regardless of age.
Part 6: Bible Verses About Learning About God – The Ultimate Goal
Learning for Transformation, Not Just Information
Romans 12:2 describes the transformative purpose of Christian learning: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” This verse shows that biblical learning should result in mental and spiritual transformation.
2 Corinthians 3:18 reveals the ongoing process of spiritual transformation: “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Colossians 3:16 shows how Scripture facilitates transformation: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”
Romans 10:17 explains how faith grows through learning: “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” This verse demonstrates that spiritual growth requires exposure to God‘s Word.
Transformation Through Biblical Learning:
- Renewed thinking patterns aligned with Scripture
- Changed behavior reflecting biblical values
- Increased faith through knowledge of God
- Deeper relationship with Jesus Christ
- Greater understanding of God‘s will and purposes
Bible Verses About Learning to Love God and Others
Matthew 22:37-39 presents the greatest commandments involving learning: “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” This passage shows that learning to love is the ultimate educational goal.
1 John 4:7-8 connects love and knowledge of God: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.” This passage demonstrates that knowing God necessarily involves learning to love.
John 14:15 links love and obedience in learning: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” This verse shows that love for Jesus motivates obedience to His teaching.
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 provides the Old Testament foundation for love-based learning: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children.”
Bible Verses About Learning and Growing in Hope and Faith
1 Peter 3:15 emphasizes learning for evangelistic purposes: “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” This verse shows that biblical learning should prepare believers to share their faith.
Romans 15:4 connects Scripture learning with hope: “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 provides hope through understanding God‘s plans: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This verse, with 346 helpful votes, offers encouragement to those learning to trust God.
Isaiah 26:3 shows the peace that comes from learning to trust: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” This passage demonstrates that biblical learning and trust produce spiritual peace.
Conclusion
The Bible‘s approach to learning encompasses far more than academic achievement or intellectual knowledge. Scripture presents learning as a comprehensive spiritual journey involving wisdom, understanding, discipline, and practical application of divine truth.
Which Bible verse talks about education? 2 Timothy 3:16-17 remains the cornerstone passage, establishing Scripture as the foundation for all spiritual education. What does God say about learning lessons? Throughout both Old Testament and New Testament, God consistently presents Himself as the ultimate teacher who uses various means – including discipline, experience, and community – to instruct His people.
What Psalm is for learning? Psalm 25 provides the perfect prayer model for those seeking divine instruction, while Psalm 32:8 offers God‘s promise to teach and guide personally.
The Bible verses about learning reveal several key principles:
Essential Principles for Biblical Learning:
- Learning begins with reverence for God (Proverbs 1:7)
- Scripture serves as the primary textbook for spiritual education (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
- The Holy Spirit acts as our ultimate teacher (John 14:26)
- Discipline and correction are necessary for growth (Proverbs 3:11-12)
- Learning should result in transformation, not just information (Romans 12:2)
- We have a responsibility to teach others (Matthew 28:19-20)
- Humility is essential for receiving instruction (1 Peter 5:5)
- Learning is a lifelong process requiring persistence (Philippians 4:9)
The balance between intellectual growth and spiritual maturity remains crucial for biblical learning. Scripture never diminishes the value of education and knowledge, but it always places these within the context of relationship with God and service to others.
For those seeking Bible verses about learning and growing, Scripture provides abundant wisdom and practical guidance. Whether you’re a student, teacher, parent, or lifelong learner, these biblical principles offer instruction and guidance for educational success and spiritual development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bible Verses on Learning
What Bible verse talks about learning?
The most foundational Bible verse about learning is Proverbs 1:7: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Other key verses include 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Matthew 11:29, and James 1:5.
Which Bible verse talks about education?
2 Timothy 3:16-17 provides the most comprehensive biblical perspective on education: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
What does God say about learning lessons?
God teaches lessons through various means according to Scripture. Proverbs 3:11-12 shows that God uses discipline for learning: “My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves.” Romans 15:4 indicates that biblical examples teach us lessons for encouragement and hope.
What Psalm is for learning?
Psalm 25 serves as the primary psalm for learning, with verses 4-5 declaring: “Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation.” Psalm 32:8 also promises divine instruction: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.”
What does the Bible say about never stop learning?
Philippians 4:9 encourages continuous learning: “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things.” 2 Timothy 2:15 exhorts believers to diligent study: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”
Are there Bible verses about learning from mistakes?
Yes, Scripture teaches that God uses our mistakes for learning. Proverbs 24:16 states: “For the righteous falls seven times and rises again.” Romans 8:28 promises that God works all things together for good, including our failures and mistakes.
Practical Application Section
Daily Bible Reading and Study Plans for Spiritual Education
Implementing Bible verses about learning requires consistent spiritual discipline. Consider these practical approaches:
Weekly Learning Schedule:
- Monday: Study Proverbs for wisdom and practical instruction
- Tuesday: Read Psalms for worship and personal guidance
- Wednesday: Explore New Testament epistles for doctrinal teaching
- Thursday: Study Gospel accounts of Jesus‘ teaching ministry
- Friday: Read Old Testament narratives for historical lessons
- Saturday: Review and apply the week’s learning
- Sunday: Participate in corporate worship and teaching
Questions for Reflection and Discussion on Learning and Discipleship
- How does fear of the Lord change your approach to education and learning?
- What role does the Holy Spirit play in your understanding of Scripture?
- How do you balance secular education with biblical learning?
- What lessons has God taught you through difficult experiences?
More Prayers
inspirational Bible verses and quotes
prayer for protection from evil
prayers for protection from enemies
Catherine Frank, founder of BiblicalHorizon.com, shares daily prayers and Bible verses to nurture spiritual growth. With a lifelong passion for scripture and prayer traditions, she creates accessible spiritual content that resonates with both seasoned believers and newcomers seeking divine connection.
