Knowledge they say is power; therefore, anyone who possess knowledge is considered powerful in societies. However, power on its own is not enough; it must be properly conducted and effectively used or employed. Hence, the how becomes glaringly important. Indeed, what to be done, what to be bought, and where to be in life among others has never been the problem among men; but from history, the challenge has always been “how”.

“The labour of fools wearies them, for they do not even know how to go to the city.”

Ecclesiastes 10:15

The labour there could be your own marriage, education, business, ministry, courtship and leadership among others; and in spite of your recent efforts to make it work; you have been faced with issues for a while now. I know quite well that you have read many books and you have even gone for your Masters Degree; however, the issues are still steering at your face. The problem usually is not your lack of power – to learn, to build, to relate, to lead or to minister; but inadequate understanding of how to use your power to grow your ministry, marriage, leadership, education and business.

In one of the letters of Brother Paul (Lawyer, Writer and Ambassador) to the people of Corinth in Greece; he said that “knowledge puffs up”. Remember, power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely; hence, increasing your knowledgebase is not the only thing your growth requires; but increased understanding.

It has been said that understanding deals with “under matters”; if you may, “the base of every matter”, what everything stands on. Therefore, the key to peace, progress and prosperity is effective understanding of people, processes, products and producers. Don’t just know more, understand more, discover the principles behind people’s actions and attitudes; discover secrets – with that, you do not just have power, which on its own is useless; but you will have power with people.

Therefore, the secret of effective closeness with God (having power with God) is not just going to Seminary or Theological School; but by discerning the basis (principle) behind every word and action of God. Don’t just know about God, discover or understand His plan and purpose for your life. Don’t just know God’s word, understand His heart: For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks!

I therefore challenge Nigerians and every other person across the world, not to be puffed up by what they know; but to be simple (humbled) and mannered by what they have understood. Truly, understanding is a great cure for pride, arrogance and frivolity.

If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.” Ecclesiastes 10:10

If I may, let your words and actions daily, be filtered by your understanding – you will be seen and acknowledged by others to be better man, boy, girl or woman. Truly, effective behavior is a product of good understanding. And your understanding is the last link between what you know and what you do; what you know and what you say – surely, your words and actions always reflect your understanding. Live your life with improved understanding!