The third frequent failure I see in students is the disregard of instructions. That includes both written guidelines and spoken words. There is not a single cause for this. Some simply think that they’ll remember and then they don’t (see Sin #2). Some don’t take the time to read the material given to them. Some think if they get it “mostly right” then that is good enough. All, I believe, are careless.
I was never in the military, so I could be wrong on this, but from what I’ve heard, I believe that the rigorous training the military gives to teach compliance is very good. The premise is that the soldier has to be so well trained to obey instructions no matter what, that in the toughest situation he won’t think of doing anything other than following the commander’s directions. There is no such thing as “grace.”
In a Christian college, I’m dealing with students of all stripes. Some were taught to be very careful in following instructions. Others were taught (or learned) that their actions aren’t important because there is always forgiveness. I don’t agree. I don’t think there always is forgiveness. At least, there’s not in the military. Or in business. And often in relationships. Even where there is forgiveness, there are usually consequences.
This, I think, is one thing that teachers should help their students to learn: there are consequences. Applying “grace” to the student who doesn’t follow instructions only teaches them that the rules don’t matter. And in fact, if there’s one thing we should be teaching our students, it is that the rules do matter. Above all, God’s rules matter. He who is sloppy with his homework is likely sloppy in his walk with the Lord.
If we can teach soldiers to follow instructions with great care, why shouldn’t we teach the “soldiers” of Christ to live with even greater care?
If you’re a student who is not living with care, expect consequences in this life and the next. And don’t expect your Commander-in-Chief to say “well done.”
“If anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules” (Paul in his 2nd letter to Timothy, 2:5).
Thank you Todd. You have always been such an encouragement. Especially in the area of education and diligence.
Amen brother! Working in a PD at a Christian campus, we have to write tickets to students/faculty/staff. I can ‘t tell you how many times I have heard these folks say, “I should be given grace on this one because . . .” Should be given grace? Isn ‘t “deserved grace” an oxymoron?
Unfortunately, in our Christian environments (colleges, seminaries, churches, etc.) we breed people to expect grace, they expect a handout, they expect reduced medical bills, they expect cheaper meals, and they expect it all because they are Christians. What must the world think? I think I might have to write a post on this one . . .
Jonathan – this is just down your alley! I look forward to a series of posts from you on this! :-)