All of us have our spiritual struggles. Even myself as a pastor and bishop have them. What I have come to realize some years ago is that my ordination and calling as a “teacher”, is LITERALLY it’s own spiritual development plan. Sometimes I wonder if this was God’s way of teaching me, by calling (ahem…forcing...ahem) me to teach?

Apparently science agrees…

The Cognitive Benefits of Teaching for Learning

Research in cognitive science and educational psychology has consistently demonstrated that teaching others can significantly enhance one's own learning and understanding of a subject. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "protégé effect," suggests that the act of teaching requires the teacher to organize their knowledge, identify gaps in their understanding, and articulate concepts clearly, thereby reinforcing their own learning. When individuals prepare to teach, they engage in deeper processing of the material, which involves critical thinking and the integration of new information with existing knowledge. This process not only solidifies their comprehension but also improves memory retention. Furthermore, teaching encourages metacognitive awareness, as individuals must monitor their own understanding to effectively convey information to others. Studies have shown that when learners anticipate teaching the material, they adopt more effective learning strategies, such as summarizing and questioning, which further enhance their grasp of the content. Thus, the cognitive demands of teaching serve as a powerful mechanism for reinforcing and expanding one's own knowledge base.

The protégé effect is a concept in learning that suggests we learn more effectively by teaching information to others, even if those others aren't necessarily any less knowledgeable.

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The Power of Teaching as a Learning Tool

Teaching others your faith and spirituality is a fantastic way to learn because it forces you to understand the material deeply. When you prepare to teach, you have to organize your thoughts and make sure you really know the topic. This process helps you identify any gaps in your knowledge and encourages you to fill them. As you explain concepts to someone else, you also reinforce your own understanding. It's like when you try to tell a story; you remember it better because you have to think about it clearly to share it with others.

Another reason teaching is so effective is that it encourages active engagement. When you're teaching, you're not just passively taking in information; you're actively working with it. This active involvement helps your brain make stronger connections with the material. Plus, when students ask questions, it challenges you to think on your feet and consider different perspectives. This can lead to new insights and a deeper grasp of the subject.

Pastors, for example, learn a lot while they teach. As they prepare sermons and lessons, they dive deep into texts and explore their meanings. This study helps them grow in their own faith and understanding. When they share these insights with their congregation, they often receive feedback and questions that make them think even more deeply. This ongoing cycle of teaching and learning helps pastors continually expand their knowledge and spiritual wisdom, benefiting both themselves and their community.

But do you have to be a pastor, to teach your faith?

Emphatically no!

Here are some ways to use teaching as a method to grow spiritually, even if you are not a pastor:

• - Facilitating Group Discussions: Leading a small group or Bible study can deepen your understanding of spiritual texts and foster a sense of community, allowing you to learn from others' perspectives and insights. Perhaps find a bible study or small group where it is rotating.

• - Mentoring Others: By guiding someone else on their spiritual journey, you are encouraged to reflect on your own beliefs and practices, which can lead to personal growth and a deeper connection to your faith.

• - Volunteering in Educational Programs: Teaching children or new members about spiritual principles can reinforce your own knowledge and commitment, as explaining concepts to others often requires a deeper understanding.

• - Creating Educational Content: Writing articles, blogs, or creating videos about spiritual topics can help clarify your thoughts and beliefs, as the process of teaching others often leads to self-discovery and insight.

• - Engaging in Interfaith Dialogues: Teaching about your own faith in a diverse setting can broaden your perspective and enhance your spiritual growth by exposing you to different beliefs and practices. This ones a bit tricky, as you have to understand the room you are in. Are they open to being converted? Is this informational only? I would get guidance from your pastor or whatever spiritual mentor or authority that you trust. Be like Paul on Mars Hill. Tread carefully however, as many people will setup a straw man version of the Christian faith, then attack it, and if you are not well learned in these tactics, you will feel defeated.

• - Leading Workshops or Retreats: Organizing and teaching at spiritual workshops or retreats can provide a space for both you and participants to explore and deepen your spiritual practices in a focused environment.

• Raising Children: Children have lots of questions. This will force you to delve deeper into your faith. One thing I like to do is anticipate or ask my kids the questions my kids will likely ask me, before they can ask them.

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Mind Over Money Mastery:  Master Your Mind & Master Your Money

Lack Can Only Exist In Your Experience When It Exists In Your Expectation.

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B.O.S.S Moves Book:  This is a book about that are hidden in plain sight. Secrets that most people are too programmed by “the system” to see. Secrets about human nature, self-improvement, sales, marketing, and how to price your products and services.

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