July 28, 2017

As we follow the commandment to seek learning, we will be able to feel the Spirit in our lives as we progress through this journey. At BYU-Pathway Worldwide, we understand that having a strong connection with God is important. That’s why our curriculum is centered around gospel principles and doctrines.
Here are 7 ways education can increase your connection with God:

“Ask, and ye shall receive.”
1. Understanding Spiritual and Temporal Teachings
“…they that seek the Lord understand all things.” – Proverbs 28:5
In a world with so much confusion, it is easy to become misguided. The Lord has counseled us to seek knowledge and understanding in every subject, whether it be mathematics, politics, or the gospel of Jesus Christ. As you seek a better understanding, especially in spiritual topics, you will grow closer to the Lord.
2. Asking Questions and Receiving Answers
“…ask, and ye shall receive, knock, and it shall be opened unto you….” – 3 Nephi 27:29
In the journey of gaining an education, there are many things you do not yet know. There will be questions on tests that seem impossible to answer and discussion board topics that are hard to understand. It is important that you ask. Your Heavenly Father wants you to learn and grow. He wants you to ask Him questions — and if you do, He will answer them. Whether you are struggling to understand a scientific formula or the purpose of a trial in your life, asking God for help will bring you closer to Him.
3. Accepting Your Imperfections
“Therefore… let us go on unto perfection…” – Hebrews 6:1
It is easy to compare grades with your peers or put yourself down after doing less than satisfactory on a writing assignment. During these times, it is crucial to remember that Jesus Christ was the only perfect being to walk on this Earth, and at this point in our lives we can only strive for perfection by utilizing the Atonement of Jesus Christ in our studies and in our everyday lives. You should be sure not to neglect your families or other responsibilities to get a perfect grade on a test. Make plans to do your best to succeed without putting unnecessary pressure on yourself or your family.

BYU-Pathway students gather weekly to teach one another.
4. Working Together to Come Closer to God
“…Seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom…” – D&C 109:7
The second step of the Learning Model is to Teach One Another. In teaching one another, you have the opportunity to work with classmates, understand new concepts, and share insights that you have gained. As you do this, you can come to treat others with the same love God has for them.
5. Learning From Past Mistakes
“Learning the lessons of the past allows you to walk boldly in the light…” – Elder Ballard
Perhaps procrastination got the best of you last semester, or maybe you haven’t put as much time into your studies as you should have. Going forward, remember the things that worked for you and the things that didn’t. If you should have taken more time to study for a quiz, dedicate more study time in the future. This principle can and should be applied into every aspect of your life, not just schooling. As you seek to learn from past experiences, you will find yourself progressing toward God in a more meaningful way.

“Become as a little child.” Photo Credit: LDS Media Library.
6. Becoming As a Little Child
“…If they humble themselves before me… then will I make weak things become strong unto them…” – Ether 12:27
Learning requires humility — humility to ask questions, seek understanding, and realize there are things in life that you may not yet understand. As you seek humility in education and in life, you will come to better understand how God teaches you and how you can learn and grow. In doing so, you will come closer to Him.
7. Laying Your Burdens Upon the Lord
“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee…” – Psalm 55:22
School can get stressful, especially once exams start. An important truth to remember is that what matters to you also matters to God. Rely on the Atonement of Jesus Christ to help you get through the hard times and difficult assignments. As you do this, you will feel a stronger relationship with Christ and our Father in Heaven as you rely on them throughout your schooling and your life.
Connect With God Through BYU-Pathway
Seeking education can be a fun and spiritual experience — at BYU-Pathway, we try to make it that way. To learn more about how BYU-Pathway Worldwide can bring you closer to God and your degree, visit byupathway.org to apply today!
Comments on "7 Ways Education Can Increase your Connection with God"
Pathway, the possible way to go!
I never imagine that our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, could be a center of this University and its courses ! Now I understand that it’s tottaly different than the any on earth ! What privilege to become its student!
We should be blissful disciples. That’s God’s promise.
This is food for thought. Thank you so much for the words of encouragement. As the saying goes, “If you are prepared, ye shall not fear.”
I’m so appreciative of the word of God as revealed through the Book of Mormon and The Holy Bible. They give us such great tools to make it through life. I’m especially blessed to embark on this educational journey and, most importantly, to be a part of the Church of Jesus Christ and the BYU-Pathway family! 🙂
I feel the same way Fifi! Heavenly Father has given us great opportunities through our membership in His Church. He’s teaching us with His love. It’s wonderful and amazing!
Thanks for such teaching
seek learning which is very good and also listen unto the councils of God,it will worth it.
Heavenly Father, thank you so much. To our inspired leaders in The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, thank you for the BYU-Pathway Worldwide Program. Brethren, we are grateful for your inspirations and encouragement to BYU-Pathway Worldwide.
Very strong words of encouragement, thank you.
Our Heavenly Father loves everyone. He says those who put trust in him do not put it in shame!
I affirm that there is no end to wisdom and God’s truth as far as human nature with God is concerned. With this I also see that that is one of the important purposes that he places us here on earth for.
Thank you so much for the inspiration and encouragement to a new student like me.
We hope you have a wonderful semester, Anthonia!
Thank you so much🙏
Great blessings come for me and you. Our Heavenly Father knows everything according to His own time. Seek and ye shall receive every thing in store for you and me.
A BIG THAK YOU!!
I’m grateful for having the chance to study again after so many years. These tips help me prepare for what is to come!! And of course, they remind me how much our Heavenly Father loves us and is willing to help us succeed if we humbly seek it.
Thank you for your words to this new beginning. It’s a blessing. Thanks to our Heavenly Father for this new opportunity, and thanks to all of you too.
Thank you! This information makes me feel the love of our Heavenly Father!
Love these seven ways.
The good Lord blesses 🙏 us.
I am blessed to participate in PathwayConnect at this time!
I was feeling rather overwhelmed by all the new technology and going back to school as a grandmother, but this has given me confidence to go forward in faith knowing that I just need to strive to do my best and trust in the Lord at all times!
I tried but failed but with this 7 ways education can bring you closer to God I believe heavenly father have answer my prayers and that I will make this time.
You can do it, Martha! Anything is possible with the Lord’s help!
It is overwhelming and I feel a little nervous but this “7 Ways Education Can Increase Your Connection With God” gives me hope that I can do it!
Yes Miriam. We believe that you can do it!
Thank you for sharing your experience with Pathway Connect. I will strive my best that to be honest in all my dealings with God. This strengthen my testimony and help me become closer to our Father. I know He has a great plan for us. “…they that seek the Lord understand all things.” – Proverbs 28:5
Good things to remember
The Lord loves us!
We will become better disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ and become more like Him and our Heavenly Father. They want us to be successful..
Thank you so much for sharing this inspiring 7 ways to be closer to God. As a new student, it strengthens me and gives me courage to set a big goal during my time in PathwayConnect, which is to come closer to God in having a better education.
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