Hopefully last week I was able to challenge you to reconsider your preferences. Are your preferences either for Algebra or Geometry based in truth or based in how each subject was presented? We saw that how Geometry is presented impacts how we feel about it. So, what are our preferences and what does it matter if we prefer one subject over another?
First, there’s a temptation to use our preference as an excuse. When we are faced with an algebra problem, do we answer that we are more of a geometry person? Do you not know that Geometry is taught and often learned with the language of algebra? What purpose does verbalizing a preference serve? Are we eschewing responsibility or permitting license when we use our preference as an excuse?
Second, a preference is just that. A preference. I prefer asparagus over broccoli, but that doesn’t mean that I only ever eat asparagus, or that I don’t eat broccoli without first sharing my preference for asparagus. We may prefer many good things, but we are commanded to love all good things.
Third, why are we addressing this? We are not so petty as to voice our preferences like little children, so why bring it up. If my child prefers Geometry over Algebra, what does it ultimately matter so long as he completes both subjects? It matters for this one reason: his preference may be simply that, but it also may be the beginning of building bad habits. Be watchful, for the devil isn’t unaware of the goodness of studying the language of God and he will thwart whatever he can.
Don’t let your preferences become your excuses. Take some time to tear down those lies that you’ve been told.