The Discipline of Repetition

I used to hate learning things by rote… dates for a test, math facts, locations of Paul’s missionary journeys, and so on.  I thought that I would never retain the information beyond the test.   But I’ve come to realize that repetition and review are actually very good disciplines. 

I’m reading the Bible through again this year- and repetition helps solidify what I’ve already learned… but in the process, I’m picking up new details and understanding. 

I’ve gone back and begun to re-read some classic books that have helped form my Christian character, shape my goals as a husband and develop my philosophies as a pastor.  Again and again, repetition helps me retain the important stuff in life. 

Other habits in life are good to repeat as well… brushing my teeth regularly (especially before bed); taking my contacts out (so as to avoid corneal infections )and kissing my wife good night. 

So… what are you repeating in your life?  Are you repeating the important things? 

Next time, I’ll talk about the downside of repetition.   But don’t ask me to recite the cities in Paul’s missionary journey…