To make an economic impact in your world, you need more than passion. While zeal, bravery, and courage are admirable qualities, they will not help you succeed. It is suicidal to go through life following your untrained instincts. To succeed in your calling to keep watch over your world, you must prioritize knowledge and discipline over all else. Talent and gifting are less important than discipline. According to Proverbs 19:2 (NET), “It is dangerous to have zeal without knowledge, and the one who acts hastily makes poor choices.” You will not build large businesses simply because you are passionate about it. If you want to play in the economy, you must first learn the basics.
Athletes who want to compete in a standard competition must first learn the rules. It makes no difference how talented a footballer is. They must manifest all of their gifts within the parameters of the game’s rules. A gifted footballer cannot throw a temper tantrum on the field and demand to score with their hands. To make a difference in your local economy, you must first understand how it operates. You might have the talent for business and making things happen. However, failure will result from a lack of knowledge of the rules that govern business at the highest levels.
Knowledge and discipline always outweigh talent and passion in the long run. Where there is knowledge and sufficient discipline, talent and passion will make a significant difference. Do not think that it is enough to have the passion for a better nation. A motivated fool is still a fool. You need knowledge and the discipline to get things done. So, as you document your community’s economic problems, consider the type of knowledge required to make a difference. Familiarize yourself with the applicable laws. What political or economic resources would you require to deliver the change you want?
