By Robert Harmon
As a young man nearly forty years ago, I remember going with my father into the Tulsa log library to help him research oil wells. Log Libraries were started in many oil regions in the mid-twentieth century, as a way to share data and build prospects for finding and drilling oil and gas. As such, they have been like a second home to many geologists, as well as some petroleum engineers and landmen.
So, more time has passed, and I have used the Tulsa log library, officially called the Oklahoma Well Log Library or OWLL, for years now. Currently, I am on the OWLL Board, working with others to keep the library active and going. Many younger geologists and petroleum professionals, don’t see the need to use any resource which is not available online. As with most log libraries, there is simply not enough funds to scan and put everything online. When you consider how most log libraries have many “one-of-a-kind” documents, primarily dealing with the part of the state they are located in, it would be a shame to see the old data lost. And not only are the documents in danger of being lost forever, so is the knowledge of those who study and know how to use the resources in the library. Without knowledge from the older generation, how will the younger generation know what to do?
The parallels with the Bible are simply amazing. Younger generations would always be wise to learn from older generations – no matter whether the learning is work-based or Bible-based. Job 12:12 says, “With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding.” Proverbs 1:5 says, “A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels.” A verse from Jeremiah 6:16 says, in part, “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein…”
The Bible also warns about those who seek knowledge, but have no basis for life other than making a living. In your search for knowledge, do not forget God. Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Indeed, Psalms 14:1 says, “The fool hath said in his heart, there is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.” The ultimate wise decision is to choose Jesus and follow Him.
Remember, when you die someday, it is who you have put your faith in which determines where you will spend eternity. Mark 8:36 says, “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul.” As the old saying goes, “when you die, you can’t take it with you.” In your search for wisdom, seek those who have knowledge to help you with your career and with your life. As for me, I have sought and continue to seek advice on both work and God. And by putting God first, he puts my work in perspective. Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Putting all of this into perspective, the younger generations would be wise to study what has been published, both of God and from the oilfield. Likewise, take time to listen and learn from your elders, for they will someday disappear, much like your log libraries could.
