# Make Wise Decisions Regarding Additional Education **Study week:** JULY 20-26, 2026 > “The shrewd one ponders each step.”—PROV. 14:15. 🎵 SONG 133 Worship Jehovah During Youth [Open this article on jw.org](https://www.jw.org/en/library/magazines/watchtower-study-may-2026/Make-Wise-Decisions-Regarding-Additional-Education/) ### 1-2. (a) What decisions do young people face? (b) What is meant by the term “additional education”? (See “Expression Explained.”) *(¶1-2)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/2-thessalonians/3/#v53003010)) 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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/magazines/watchtower-study-may-2026/Make-Wise-Decisions-Regarding-Additional-Education/#footnote1) 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. **Why these scriptures** - **[2 Thessalonians 3:10](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/2-thessalonians/3/#v53003010)** > 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.” ## SHOULD YOU OBTAIN ADDITIONAL EDUCATION? ### 3. Why might some Christians consider obtaining additional education? *(¶3)* **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 him[b](https://www.jw.org/en/library/magazines/watchtower-study-may-2026/Make-Wise-Decisions-Regarding-Additional-Education/#footnote2) 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. ### 4. Who should decide if a Christian will obtain additional education? (See also footnote.) *(¶4)* **4** The Bible says that each person must “carry his own load of responsibility.” ([Gal. 6:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/galatians/6/#v48006005), see [study note](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/galatians/6/#v48006005).) Thus, each adult Christian must make his or her own decision about whether to obtain additional education.[c](https://www.jw.org/en/library/magazines/watchtower-study-may-2026/Make-Wise-Decisions-Regarding-Additional-Education/#footnote3) Parents are also responsible for decisions regarding their young child’s education. ([Eph. 6:1](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ephesians/6/#v49006001)) And their guidance can prepare their child to make wise decisions about education once he is an adult.—[Prov. 22:6](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/22/#v20022006). **Why these scriptures** - **[Galatians 6:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/galatians/6/#v48006005)** > For each one will carry his own load. - **[Ephesians 6:1](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ephesians/6/#v49006001)** > 6 Children, be obedient to your parents in union with the Lord, for this is righteous. - **[Proverbs 22:6](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/22/#v20022006)** > Train a boy in the way he should go; Even when he grows old he will not depart from it. ### 5. When should a person begin thinking about additional education, and why? (See also picture.) *(¶5)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/21/#v20021005)) 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. **Why these scriptures** - **[Proverbs 21:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/21/#v20021005)** > The plans of the diligent surely lead to success, But all who are hasty surely head for poverty. ### 6. What can help someone to make a wise decision regarding additional education? *(¶6)* **6** What can help you to make a wise decision regarding additional education? Be sure to pray about the matter. ([Jas. 1:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/james/1/#v59001005)) Furthermore, consider taking the following steps. First, honestly analyze your motives. ([Ps. 26:2](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/psalms/26/#v19026002)) Second, carefully analyze the education that you are considering. ([Prov. 14:15](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/14/#v20014015)) Let us discuss these steps one at a time. **Why these scriptures** - **[James 1:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/james/1/#v59001005)** > 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. - **[Psalms 26:2](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/psalms/26/#v19026002)** > Examine me, O Jehovah, and put me to the test; Refine my innermost thoughts and my heart. - **[Proverbs 14:15](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/14/#v20014015)** > The naive person believes every word, But the shrewd one ponders each step. ## ANALYZE YOUR MOTIVES ### 7. What care should Christians take when considering additional education? *(¶7)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-timothy/5/#v54005008)) However, the Bible warns us of the dangers of materialism and of seeking security in this system of things. ([Prov. 23:4, 5;](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/23/#v20023004-v20023005) [1 Tim. 6:8-10;](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-timothy/6/#v54006008-v54006010) [1 John 2:17](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-john/2/#v62002017)) 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. **Why these scriptures** - **[1 Timothy 5:8](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-timothy/5/#v54005008)** > 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. - **[Proverbs 23:4](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/23/#v20023004-v20023005)** > Do not wear yourself out to gain wealth. Stop and show understanding. - **[Proverbs 23:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/23/#v20023004-v20023005)** > 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. - **[1 Timothy 6:8](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-timothy/6/#v54006008-v54006010)** > So, having food and clothing, we will be content with these things. - **[1 Timothy 6:9](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-timothy/6/#v54006008-v54006010)** > 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. - **[1 Timothy 6:10](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-timothy/6/#v54006008-v54006010)** > 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. - **[1 John 2:17](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-john/2/#v62002017)** > Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is its desire, but the one who does the will of God remains forever. ### 8-9. (a) How should Christians view education? (Matthew 6:33) (b) What do you learn from the comments made by Josefina, Morine, and Iris? *(¶8-9)* **8** How then should you view education? Nothing should be more important to us than serving Jehovah. ([Matt. 22:37, 38;](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/matthew/22/#v40022037-v40022038) [Phil. 3:8](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/philippians/3/#v50003008)) So view education as a means to help you support yourself while you focus your life on serving Jehovah wholeheartedly.—**Read** [Matthew 6:33](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/matthew/6/#v40006033)**.** **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. **Why these scriptures** - **[Matthew 22:37](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/matthew/22/#v40022037-v40022038)** > He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ - **[Matthew 22:38](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/matthew/22/#v40022037-v40022038)** > This is the greatest and first commandment. - **[Philippians 3:8](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/philippians/3/#v50003008)** > 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 - **[Matthew 6:33](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/matthew/6/#v40006033)** > “Keep on, then, seeking first the Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you. ## ANALYZE THE EDUCATION ### 10. How can the principle found at Deuteronomy 32:29 be applied when deciding on additional education? *(¶10)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/18/#v20018017).) 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;](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/deuteronomy/32/#v5032029) [1 Cor. 10:23](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-corinthians/10/#v46010023)) Let us consider some factors that will help you answer that question. **Why these scriptures** - **[Proverbs 18:17](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/18/#v20018017)** > The first to state his case seems right, Until the other party comes and cross-examines him. - **[1 Corinthians 10:23](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-corinthians/10/#v46010023)** > All things are lawful, but not all things are advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things build up. ### 11. Why is it important to consider the schedule of the education or training? (See also pictures.) *(¶11)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/philippians/1/#v50001010)) 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.” **Why these scriptures** - **[Philippians 1:10](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/philippians/1/#v50001010)** > 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; ### 12. How can a person make the best use of his time with respect to education? (Ecclesiastes 12:1) *(¶12)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ephesians/5/#v49005015-v49005017)) 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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/12/#v21012001)**.)** 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.” **Why these scriptures** - **[Ephesians 5:15](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ephesians/5/#v49005015-v49005017)** > So keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, - **[Ephesians 5:16](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ephesians/5/#v49005015-v49005017)** > making the best use of your time, because the days are wicked. - **[Ephesians 5:17](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ephesians/5/#v49005015-v49005017)** > On this account stop being unreasonable, but keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is. - **[Ecclesiastes 12:1](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/12/#v21012001)** > 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”; ### 13. How could a person be affected by where he lives while obtaining additional education? *(¶13)* **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;](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/22/#v20022003) [1 Cor. 15:33](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-corinthians/15/#v46015033)) 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. **Why these scriptures** - **[Proverbs 22:3](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/22/#v20022003)** > The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself, But the inexperienced keep right on going and suffer the consequences. - **[1 Corinthians 15:33](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/1-corinthians/15/#v46015033)** > Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits. ### 14. How can the principle found at Luke 14:28 help you when considering additional education? *(¶14)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/luke/14/#v42014028)**.)** ‘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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/22/#v20022007). **Why these scriptures** - **[Luke 14:28](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/luke/14/#v42014028)** > 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? - **[Proverbs 22:7](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/22/#v20022007)** > The rich one rules the poor, And the borrower is a slave to the lender. ### 15. Why should you consider the work prospects before deciding on a particular type of education? *(¶15)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/colossians/2/#v51002008)) 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.” **Why these scriptures** - **[Colossians 2:8](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/colossians/2/#v51002008)** > 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; ### 16. Why is it worthwhile to consider the type of work that the education may lead to? *(¶16)* **16** Contemplate also the type of work you are likely to find. Will you enjoy it? ([Eccl. 3:12, 13](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/3/#v21003012-v21003013)) 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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/12/#v21012013)) 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. **Why these scriptures** - **[Ecclesiastes 3:12](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/3/#v21003012-v21003013)** > I have concluded that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good during their life, - **[Ecclesiastes 3:13](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/3/#v21003012-v21003013)** > also that everyone should eat and drink and find enjoyment for all his hard work. It is the gift of God. - **[Ecclesiastes 12:13](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/ecclesiastes/12/#v21012013)** > 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. ### 17. (a) How can a Christian find the information he needs to make a wise decision regarding education? (b) What Bible principles shed light on this decision? (See the box “ Bible Principles to Consider.”) *(¶17)* **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](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/13/#v20013010)) Ask them, “What are the pros and cons of that education or employment?” Talk to others who are happily serving Jehovah. ([Prov. 15:22](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/15/#v20015022)) What education and employment do they suggest? They may even mention a field of employment that you have not considered. **Why these scriptures** - **[Proverbs 13:10](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/13/#v20013010)** > Presumptuousness leads only to strife, But wisdom belongs to those who seek advice. - **[Proverbs 15:22](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/proverbs/15/#v20015022)** > Plans fail when there is no consultation, But there is accomplishment through many advisers. ## Bible Principles to Consider ### 18. What should we remember? *(¶18)* **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,](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/psalms/16/#v19016009) [11](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/psalms/16/#v19016011)) Jehovah will always care for his people, regardless of their secular education. ([Heb. 13:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/hebrews/13/#v58013005)) 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. **Why these scriptures** - **[Psalms 16:9](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/psalms/16/#v19016009)** > So my heart rejoices, my whole being is joyful. And I reside in security. - **[Psalms 16:11](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/psalms/16/#v19016011)** > You make known to me the path of life. In your presence is abundant joy; There is happiness at your right hand forever. - **[Hebrews 13:5](https://www.jw.org/en/library/bible/study-bible/books/hebrews/13/#v58013005)** > 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.” --- *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.*