One of the questions that children, and even adults in school ask is "why do I have to study this?" I have reflected on this question in light of the growth in character that God wants from us and our children. There are two character issues involved.

1. Growth in cooperation. The state has decided that some things need to be learned by its citizens (standards of education). God also calls us to respect the authority of the state. The attitude of being against authority is not encouraged in God's word. What seems to be encouraged is an attitude of cooperation with authority (parents, government, teachers). To cooperate means to work with instead of working against. Authority is placed by God so we can have a more peaceful and orderly society. Standards create order and order is important to God.

2. Growth in industry. Education, both physical and academic, builds up our bodies and minds. Growth comes through hard work, even though we may have talents that God gave us. Hard work develops our bodies and minds so we could reach our potential. Working on a math problem develops the mind and makes it as powerful as God designed it to be. God created humans to subdue creation so it can be used for the benefit of mankind, not just for individuals. That mind and body that God gave you must be developed so it can be used for the benefit of mankind.