Like students getting into a new class, lesson, test, we need to go to school, study, do our homework, prepare for the test, take the test, pass the test, and continue going to class. We build upon what we have learned. When we have put forth effort to prepare, we will know the teacher will be pleased with the student because they can go on to deeper lessons. The teacher gives the rules for the classroom and tells the students before class gets started what is expected out of them during the school season. If they do not obey, there are consequences. The teacher may say, “You should put in more of your energy into what you are doing. You only get better if you keep up with the lessons. Do not miss class. Do not just study enough to get by. Take your time to grasp the meaning of what you are learning.
Find ways to help someone out, and you will retain more of what you have studied. If you have any questions, just ask; I am here to help you succeed. Stay after class if you need some one on one time to understand how to do the lesson. Do not wait until you have to take the test to ask questions. It will be too late.” I have many teachers to thank who made me understand this concept. It applies to biblical lifestyles for a great student who is willing to learn precept upon precept. Learning requires tests, pop quizzes, and applications, assisting someone, studying, homework, lessons, and examples. Little by little, concept by concept, lesson by lesson, the student will soon understand the deep things in school. Do not go to calculus before getting algebra. Do not try history without learning how to read. Different classes are taken at different times in our lives for good reason.
Who would be able to contain all there is to know about rocket science without learning the fundamentals of the alphabet and number system. It is elementary at the beginning, Jr. High, and then High School. No one goes through High School first. Graduation is a sign of passing the required tests that you pass to earn your diploma. Learn the basics, then go on to higher courses, but never forget the basics. Even a prodigy has to pass the minimal requirements before gaining the knowledge and understanding. Age and intellect is not the parameter that the Spirit teaches lessons. A test will not be something that would intimidate or provoke you when you are prepared. Exams are used to see if you have learned the lessons and to see where you are.
Whether you got the concepts and where you are lacking. There is no need to put yourself down if you did not pass on your first try. Study again, do the homework, put a little more effort, take the test again. You should not try to go to the next session without passing this test first. If you do, that small detail could be the difference of passing the next test or passing the whole class.
The concepts are building blocks, fundamentals to be understood and practiced so that the details will be easier to be established.