Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
Philippians 4:11-12 (ESV)
Surprise! Something unexpected has happened again and there is no other option available except to adapt! There is no turning back the clock and the only way to handle the situation is to move ahead—and the sooner the better!
In a recent study conducted at the Institute of Cognitive Sciences in France, researchers discovered an inverse relationship between surprise and general curiosity. The study looked at the interplay between intellectual curiosity, prior knowledge of a topic, and level of surprise. As you might imagine, being surprised, dampens motivation to find out other, new knowledge.
However, the problem is learning something new and adapting to it will always come with some surprises. Being curious is a good thing and being curious about a lot of things is even better. In order to enhance performance in any area of expertise, it is essential to stay broadly curious. By doing so we expose ourselves to new problems in the pursuit of self-improvement, and research has shown that curiosity is a key player in any enhanced learning. The question then becomes: How can I increase my intellectual curiosity?
One solution is to embrace adapting—and the Bible has much to say about it! Jesus adapted His nature into being both God and Man, being born of a virgin, and being born in the flesh so that He could atone for the sins of those whom God brings to repentance. His mission on earth required the greatest adaptability of anyone in human history. He fulfilled God’s purpose of seeking people who would glorify Him with their lives—who would be like He is. We need look no further than Jesus Christ if we want to see the supreme example of who God wants us to be.
I’ve said that I don’t like surprises, but now I am reconsidering my attitude. By being resistant, I’ve undoubtedly shut down gifts that a generous amount of curiosity and eventual adapting would bring into my life. I want to be a daughter who more perfectly glorifies God. Since that is the case, Lord, bring it on! Surprise me!