Grades and knowledge

Lately I have been struggling in school to get good grades. I have studied and put so many hours into preparing for my tests, but the outcomes of my tests do not seem to match up with my work done. Because of this, is God somehow telling me something about why I am not doing very well? I am praying constantly and getting very confused on why these bad grades could help me later in my life.

I would encourage you not to try to connect your test grades to a message from God. What I do not know is what help you might be seeking to improve your test scores. Does your school have a learning center or a tutoring service that you could utilize? Have you talked to your teacher(s) about different test-taking strategies or study skills? If not, do pursue those options.

I would also encourage you to put test scores and grades in perspective. While grades can be important for eligibility in extracurricular activities and financial assistance in higher education, do keep in mind that learning is much more important. The knowledge that you acquire, regardless of your grades, is important now and in the future.

Finally, you and I will want to remember that natural talents and spiritual gifts are going to vary from one Christian to another. The description of the Christian Church as the body of Christ emphasizes the diversity and importance of each member (Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12:12-31). You and I can easily become discouraged if we look around and see someone else who might have greater talents or gifts than we do. That “comparison game” diminishes God’s personalized treatment of us: we are a unique part of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27), and God has gifted us according to his wisdom and love (1 Peter 4:10).

So, be faithful and keep working to the best of your God-given abilities. Remember that the Bible contains the most important knowledge we have. That is why it says, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).