Study week: JULY 20-26, 2026
“The shrewd one ponders each step.”—PROV. 14:15.
🎵 SONG 133 Worship Jehovah During Youth
1 “WHAT type of work would you like to do when you grow up?” If you are young, you have likely been asked this question many times. The best career that you could choose is a career in full-time service. However, you will also need to support yourself financially. (2 Thess. 3:10) No doubt, you have thought about what secular work you could do in the future.
2 To find employment, some young people—usually under parental guidance—choose to get additional education after completing the required schooling where they live.a Maybe you have wondered if you should get additional education. If so, what type? This article will discuss Bible principles that can help you think wisely about your education. Wise thinking leads to wise decisions. Although this article is primarily addressed to young people, it can help any Christian who is considering additional education. The principles can also help parents guide their children.
Answer
Young people often face decisions about what secular work they will do to support themselves financially. "Additional education" refers to schooling or training a person might pursue after completing the required basic education in their area.
Why these scriptures
In fact, when we were with you, we used to give you this order: “If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat.”
This scripture is cited to emphasize that Christians need to support themselves financially, as it states that "if anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat."
3 In some places, a person can earn an adequate living without further education. In other places, additional education may help someone find employment that pays better or has better hours. For a Christian, this could allow himb to spend more time in the preaching work or in other theocratic activities. Yet, additional education requires sacrifices and can present a Christian with certain challenges.
Answer
Some Christians might consider additional education to find employment that offers better pay or more flexible hours, which could allow them to spend more time in the preaching work or other spiritual activities. However, it's important to remember that this choice also involves sacrifices and potential challenges.
4 The Bible says that each person must “carry his own load of responsibility.” (Gal. 6:5, see study note.) Thus, each adult Christian must make his or her own decision about whether to obtain additional education.c Parents are also responsible for decisions regarding their young child’s education. (Eph. 6:1) And their guidance can prepare their child to make wise decisions about education once he is an adult.—Prov. 22:6.
Answer
Each adult Christian must make their own decision about pursuing additional education, as each person carries their own load of responsibility. For young children, parents are responsible for decisions regarding their education and can guide them to make wise choices as adults.
Why these scriptures
For each one will carry his own load.
This verse supports the idea that each adult Christian makes their own decision, because it states that "each one will carry his own load."
6 Children, be obedient to your parents in union with the Lord, for this is righteous.
This scripture is cited to show that children should be obedient to their parents, indicating parental responsibility in a child's education.
Train a boy in the way he should go; Even when he grows old he will not depart from it.
This proverb highlights the importance of parental guidance in training a child, suggesting that such training prepares them for future wise decisions.
5 Young people often need to make a decision about whether they will pursue additional education before they finish their required schooling. Of course, it is wise for a young person to discuss this topic with his parents well before he has to decide. This will give them time to work together, researching different options. They may be able to choose subjects at school that will prepare him for his future education or employment. Do they have to make a decision before the young person finishes his required schooling? Not necessarily. (Prov. 21:5) Some young ones have chosen to finish school, find work, and start pioneering while they determine whether to obtain additional education. Even later in life, a person may consider such a decision.
Answer
Young people often need to think about additional education before finishing their required schooling, and it's wise to discuss this with parents early to research options and prepare. While not strictly necessary to decide immediately, planning ahead helps avoid hasty decisions that might lead to difficulties.
Why these scriptures
The plans of the diligent surely lead to success, But all who are hasty surely head for poverty.
This scripture is used to caution against hasty decisions, emphasizing that "the plans of the diligent surely lead to success, But all who are hasty surely head for poverty."
6 What can help you to make a wise decision regarding additional education? Be sure to pray about the matter. (Jas. 1:5) Furthermore, consider taking the following steps. First, honestly analyze your motives. (Ps. 26:2) Second, carefully analyze the education that you are considering. (Prov. 14:15) Let us discuss these steps one at a time.
Answer
To make a wise decision about additional education, a person should first pray for wisdom. Then, they should honestly analyze their motives for pursuing education and carefully analyze the specific education they are considering.
Why these scriptures
So if any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching, and it will be given him.
This verse encourages asking God for wisdom, promising that "he gives generously to all and without reproaching."
Examine me, O Jehovah, and put me to the test; Refine my innermost thoughts and my heart.
This scripture supports honestly analyzing one's motives by asking Jehovah to "examine me... and put me to the test; Refine my innermost thoughts and my heart."
The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step.
This proverb encourages careful analysis of education options, stating that "the shrewd one ponders each step."
7 If you are thinking of obtaining further education, a key question to ask yourself is, ‘Why do I want to obtain this form of education?’ Many people pursue education so that they can get a job that they will enjoy or one that pays better. Are these motives wrong? Not necessarily. (1 Tim. 5:8) However, the Bible warns us of the dangers of materialism and of seeking security in this system of things. (Prov. 23:4, 5; 1 Tim. 6:8-10; 1 John 2:17) If your motive is to obtain wealth or prestige, not only might you be left feeling empty but you could also drift away from Jehovah.
Answer
Christians should carefully examine their motives for seeking additional education, ensuring it's not primarily for wealth or prestige. While providing for oneself is right, pursuing education solely for material gain or security in this system could lead to emptiness and a drifting away from Jehovah.
Why these scriptures
Certainly if anyone does not provide for those who are his own, and especially for those who are members of his household, he has disowned the faith and is worse than a person without faith.
This verse acknowledges the need to provide for one's household, stating that "if anyone does not provide for those who are his own... he has disowned the faith."
Do not wear yourself out to gain wealth. Stop and show understanding.
This verse warns against wearing oneself out to gain wealth.
When you cast your eyes on it, it is not there, For it will surely sprout wings like an eagle and fly off into the sky.
This verse warns that wealth "will surely sprout wings like an eagle and fly off into the sky."
So, having food and clothing, we will be content with these things.
This verse encourages contentment with basic necessities like food and clothing.
But those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and harmful desires that plunge men into destruction and ruin.
This verse cautions that those determined to be rich fall into temptation and harmful desires.
For the love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have been led astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over with many pains.
This verse warns against the love of money, which is "a root of all sorts of injurious things" and can lead people astray from the faith.
Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but the one who does the will of God remains forever.
This verse reminds us that "the world is passing away and so is its desire," encouraging us not to seek security in it.
8 How then should you view education? Nothing should be more important to us than serving Jehovah. (Matt. 22:37, 38; Phil. 3:8) So view education as a means to help you support yourself while you focus your life on serving Jehovah wholeheartedly.—Read Matthew 6:33.
9 Note what helped some Christians to keep a proper view of additional education. Josefina, from Chile, says: “Secular studies were a means to help me serve Jehovah as fully as possible. My education program had to revolve around my spiritual goals, not the other way around.” A sister named Morine chose a one-year course to become a hair stylist. Why? She says: “My goal was to serve where the need was greater. So I looked for a course that would help me to reach that goal. After finishing the course, I used what I had learned to work as a hair stylist and save money for the move. And once I moved to where the need was greater, my education helped me to find work.” Iris, who completed a longer course in the dental field, says: “Additional education may have some advantages, but it will never give you true success and satisfaction. The formula is simple: If Jehovah is the center of your life, satisfaction and success are guaranteed.” Yes, when our friendship with Jehovah is the most important thing in our life, we will make decisions that result in lasting happiness.
Answer
Christians should view education as a means to support themselves while keeping their service to Jehovah as the most important thing in their lives. Josefina, Morine, and Iris show that education should revolve around spiritual goals, helping one to serve Jehovah more fully, rather than becoming the primary focus itself.
Why these scriptures
He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’
This verse highlights the greatest commandment to "love Jehovah your God with your whole heart," emphasizing the primacy of serving God.
This is the greatest and first commandment.
This verse identifies the greatest and first commandment as loving Jehovah with one's whole heart, soul, and mind.
What is more, I do indeed also consider all things to be loss on account of the excelling value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have taken the loss of all things and I consider them as a lot of refuse, that I may gain Christ
This scripture shows that serving Jehovah is of "excelling value," making all other things seem like loss by comparison.
“Keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you.
This verse provides the core principle that Christians should "keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness," with other needs being added.
10 You may have in mind a specific course or training program. But it is also useful to consider other possibilities—either in the same field or in other fields. (Compare Proverbs 18:17.) Today, there are education options that did not exist in the past, such as online courses. And do not forget to consider whether you could support yourself without further education. For example, Johanna, from Finland, did not get any additional education. She says: “After I finished school, I started working part-time and pioneering. I’ve had a variety of jobs, and I’ve seen how Jehovah always keeps his promise to provide what we need.” Remember that all decisions regarding additional education—whether to obtain it and what type to obtain—involve advantages and disadvantages. So ask yourself: ‘Are the advantages worth the disadvantages?’ (Read Deuteronomy 32:29; 1 Cor. 10:23) Let us consider some factors that will help you answer that question.
Answer
When deciding on additional education, we should apply the principle at Deuteronomy 32:29 by considering all available options, including those that don't require further schooling, and weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each. This helps us to be shrewd and consider what will be truly beneficial in the long run.
Why these scriptures
The first to state his case seems right, Until the other party comes and cross-examines him.
This verse encourages considering different perspectives, suggesting that it's useful to explore various educational possibilities.
All things are lawful, but not all things are advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things build up.
This verse reminds us to consider if an option is truly advantageous and builds us up, even if it is lawful.
11 The schedule. Consider how many hours you will spend each week attending classes, receiving training, and doing homework. Will you still have time for your spiritual routine and family obligations? (Phil. 1:10) Could your secular studies leave you feeling too tired mentally for meeting preparation or personal study? This was the case for Jeroz, from India. He says: “I struggled to focus on spiritual activities. At times, I missed meetings. Looking back, I realize that the course was not worth the time and energy.” Then again, some courses are not so time-consuming; some are part-time, others require little homework. For example, Rabeca, from Mozambique, is happy with her choice of education. She says: “The course was only two hours a day. It allowed me to continue regular pioneering.”
Answer
It's important to consider the schedule of education because it affects how much time remains for spiritual routines and family obligations. An overly demanding schedule could lead to mental exhaustion, making it difficult to focus on meeting preparation or personal study, as Jeroz experienced.
Why these scriptures
that you may make sure of the more important things, so that you may be flawless and not stumbling others up to the day of Christ;
This scripture encourages making "sure of the more important things," which includes prioritizing spiritual activities over demanding schedules.
12 The length. Consider how many months or years it will take to complete the education program. Would acquiring that education be the best use of your time? (Eph. 5:15-17) If you are young, will the education program allow you to give Jehovah your best during your youth, perhaps in the full-time ministry? (Read Ecclesiastes 12:1.) Are there shorter education options in the same field? For example, vocational training and trade schools may give you practical skills in less time and at less cost than universities. Mario, from Chile, says: “I chose a two-year technical course that was cheaper than a university course. I had classes only four days a week, which permitted me to pioneer while taking the course.”
Answer
A person can make the best use of their time by considering the length of an education program and whether it allows them to serve Jehovah fully, especially during their youth. Shorter, more practical options like vocational training may provide necessary skills more efficiently and at less cost than longer university courses.
Why these scriptures
So keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons,
This verse encourages walking as wise persons, keeping strict watch on how one walks.
making the best use of your time, because the days are wicked.
This verse encourages making "the best use of your time," which involves considering the length and value of an education program.
On this account stop being unreasonable, but keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is.
This verse encourages perceiving "what the will of Jehovah is," which helps in making wise decisions about time and education.
12 Remember, then, your Grand Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of distress come and the years arrive when you will say: “I have no pleasure in them”;
This scripture advises to "remember, then, your Grand Creator in the days of your youth," prompting young ones to consider how education will affect their ability to give Jehovah their best.
13 The location. You may find an education program that is close to home. But what if you find a program in another city? Or what if the education program requires you to live on campus? Be aware that moving away from your family poses a serious spiritual danger, especially if you will room with people who do not share your faith. (Prov. 22:3; 1 Cor. 15:33) Matias, from Mozambique, completed an inexpensive one-year course. Yet, he regrets his decision. Why? He says: “I had to spend the entire time at a boarding school. I was tempted daily to do wrong things. I recommend taking a course that will not separate you from your family.” A sister from Russia says: “I avoided dangers and temptations by living at home with my parents instead of on campus or in a dormitory.” You may even be able to find an online course.
Answer
Where a person lives while obtaining additional education can significantly affect them spiritually, especially if it involves moving away from family or living with non-believers. This can expose them to daily temptations and bad associations, potentially leading to spiritual dangers and regret, as Matias experienced.
Why these scriptures
The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself, But the inexperienced keep right on going and suffer the consequences.
This proverb warns that "the shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself," encouraging caution about living arrangements that pose spiritual risks.
Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.
This scripture directly warns that "bad associations spoil useful habits," highlighting the danger of living with those who do not share one's faith.
14 The financial cost. Some courses are inexpensive or may be funded by the government. In such cases, getting additional education may be an affordable way to gain knowledge and skills that will help you to obtain employment. But in other cases, additional education is expensive. There may also be indirect costs, such as private schooling or tutoring to help you qualify for enrollment. Some courses leave students with many years of debt. Adilson, from Mozambique, regrets his choice in education. He says: “My family sacrificed food and other basic needs to pay for my four-year course.” As you analyze a course or training program, ask yourself: ‘How much will it cost? Can my family or I afford it? Is there a less expensive option?’ (Read Luke 14:28.) ‘If I get into debt, how long will it take to pay it off? Will my future employment pay enough to sustain me and pay off the loan?’—Prov. 22:7.
Answer
The principle at Luke 14:28 helps us by encouraging us to "calculate the expense" of additional education, considering not only the direct costs but also potential debt and how long it might take to pay it off. This helps us determine if the financial burden is manageable and if the future employment will sustain us.
Why these scriptures
For example, who of you wanting to build a tower does not first sit down and calculate the expense to see if he has enough to complete it?
This scripture encourages careful planning and calculation of costs before embarking on a project, such as additional education.
The rich one rules the poor, And the borrower is a slave to the lender.
This proverb warns that "the borrower is a slave to the lender," prompting consideration of the long-term financial implications of educational debt.
15 The work prospects. Consider the employment market where you live or where you want to live. Will the education actually help you to find a job? Some courses provide little practical training. Instead, they are mostly theoretical or they focus on intellectual, academic, or philosophical subjects. (Col. 2:8) A sister from India says: “My course did not help me to develop the practical skills that employers require. As a result, I was not able to find work in the field I had studied.” Other education may be in a field with few job opportunities. Sublime, from the Central African Republic, completed a course on repairing air conditioners. However, he says: “Where I live, most people repair things themselves, so it can be difficult to find work.”
Answer
It's important to consider work prospects because some education programs offer little practical training or focus on academic subjects that don't lead to available jobs in the local market. Without practical skills or demand for the chosen field, a person may struggle to find employment, as the examples of the sister from India and Sublime illustrate.
Why these scriptures
Look out that no one takes you captive by means of the philosophy and empty deception according to human tradition, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ;
This scripture cautions against being taken captive by "philosophy and empty deception according to human tradition," which can apply to education that lacks practical value for securing employment.
16 Contemplate also the type of work you are likely to find. Will you enjoy it? (Eccl. 3:12, 13) What will the work environment be like? Is it an industry known for being unsafe, competitive, or stressful? How much money does that type of work typically pay? Will it be enough to support yourself? Will you need ongoing education to keep the job? Most important, will it allow you to put Kingdom interests first? (Eccl. 12:13) Of course, when work is scarce, we cannot afford to be too choosy. But the choice you make regarding education can affect your employment opportunities in the future. Tabitha, from India, chose a six-month sewing course. She says: “I reasoned that working as a tailor would help me to pioneer. It is a job that would always be in demand, give me a flexible schedule, and not require a large investment.” The course helped Tabitha find work to support her pioneering.
Answer
It's worthwhile to consider the type of work an education may lead to because it affects one's enjoyment, work environment, and ability to prioritize Kingdom interests. Choosing a field that offers a flexible schedule, is in demand, and doesn't require excessive investment, like Tabitha's sewing course, can better support one's full-time ministry.
Why these scriptures
I have concluded that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good during their life,
This verse suggests finding enjoyment in one's hard work, which encourages considering if the resulting employment will be satisfying.
also that everyone should eat and drink and find enjoyment for all his hard work. It is the gift of God.
This verse suggests that finding enjoyment for all one's hard work is a gift of God.
The conclusion of the matter, everything having been heard, is: Fear the true God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole obligation of man.
This scripture emphasizes that the "whole obligation of man" is to "fear the true God and keep his commandments," reminding us to choose work that allows us to put Kingdom interests first.
17 We have discussed various factors to consider about additional education. How can you find the information you need to make a wise decision? Research potential courses by visiting the institution or its website. Check job listings to learn how many jobs are available in that field. You could also consult with those who have completed similar training or who work in that field. (Prov. 13:10) Ask them, “What are the pros and cons of that education or employment?” Talk to others who are happily serving Jehovah. (Prov. 15:22) What education and employment do they suggest? They may even mention a field of employment that you have not considered.
Answer
A Christian can find information by researching institutions and job listings, and by consulting with those who have completed similar training or work in that field to learn the pros and cons. They should also talk to others who are happily serving Jehovah to gain advice on education and employment that supports spiritual goals.
Why these scriptures
Presumptuousness leads only to strife, But wisdom belongs to those who seek advice.
This proverb highlights that "wisdom belongs to those who seek advice," encouraging consultation with others about educational and employment options.
Plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers.
This scripture states that "plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers," emphasizing the value of seeking counsel from various sources.
18 As we have seen, additional education has advantages and disadvantages. So prayerfully consider your options. Remember, further education may provide a measure of material stability, but the only way to be truly happy is to have a close friendship with Jehovah. (Ps. 16:9, 11) Jehovah will always care for his people, regardless of their secular education. (Heb. 13:5) Now, what if you have decided to get additional education? What can help you to remain close to Jehovah during your studies? This will be discussed in the next article.
Answer
We should remember that while additional education has advantages and disadvantages, true happiness comes from a close friendship with Jehovah, not just material stability. We can trust that Jehovah will always care for his people, regardless of their secular education.
Why these scriptures
So my heart rejoices, my whole being is joyful. And I reside in security.
This verse assures us that a joyful heart and security come from Jehovah.
You make known to me the path of life. In your presence is abundant joy; There is happiness at your right hand forever.
This verse assures us that "in your presence is abundant joy" and "there is happiness at your right hand forever," emphasizing that a close friendship with Jehovah brings true happiness and security.
Let your way of life be free of the love of money, while you are content with the present things. For he has said: “I will never leave you, and I will never abandon you.”
This scripture reminds us to be "content with the present things" and that Jehovah will "never leave you, and I will never abandon you," reinforcing his care for his people.
Answers are AI-generated study aids, not published material. Article text and references are © Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania; follow the links above to read them on jw.org.