“Rest from inordinate desire of knowledge, for therein is found much distraction and deceit. Those who have knowledge desire to appear learned, and to be called wise. Many things there are to know which profiteth little or nothing to the soul. And foolish out of measure is he who attendeth upon other things rather than those which serve to his soul’s health. Many word satisfy not the soul, but a good life refresheth the mind, and a pure conscience giveth great confidence towards God.”
(The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis, The First Book, page 5)
I never did finish college and have often regretted it. Yet in recent years, I realize the Lord was protecting me in many ways.
The quest for knowledge and power was what brought Lucifer down. It puffed him up, filling him with an arrogance which was unprecedented.
Our hearts need to be willing to humbly learn. May we not think we know it all or know better than those around us, for there is something to be learned from each person in our lives.
From the humblest of occupations, such as a farmer, there can often be found a greater measure of intelligence than in a scholar. A farmer is wise in the ways of climate, the land, crops, and cattle so as to bring about the greatest yield.
Paul made this observation about knowledge, “But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.” (1 Corinthians 8:1-3, NLT)
Knowledge puffs up because it flatters our pride. Love builds up because it has the greatest good of the fellow Christian as the top priority.
“Brotherly love is still the distinguishing badge of every true Christian.” (Matthew Henry)
(from The Key Word Commentary by Mark Water, page 1071)
We all have this innate desire to know. There’s even an advertising slogan that states, “Inquiring minds wants to know.” But knowledge apart from the fear and love of God and others amounts to nothing in this life.
Let us become people who are wise in what truly matters. Let us be learned in God’s truths. Wise in the application of His Word to our lives and situations.
My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God.” (Proverbs 2:1-5, NLT)
Today I am joining … Testimony Tuesday and Unite and #RaRaLinkup .
Amen. Humility is at the center of the gospel. Love this: “Our hearts need to be willing to humbly learn. May we not think we know it all or know better than those around us, for there is something to be learned from each person in our lives.” Thanks for sharing your wisdom here, Joanne. Beautiful post.
Thank you, Karen. I’m glad you liked the quote. May we be centered in the gospel and in humility all of our days.
Joanne,
I didn’t finish my degree, but conceded to graduate with a diploma at the suggestion of others. It has often bothered me so I get how you feel. It is a great reminder to not let anything become a god, not even the pursuit of knowledge. Great Post!
~Sherry Stahl
xoxo
Sherry, this is one of those times it is nice to know I am not alone. I am glad that God and I have worked on this and most days, it no longer has an impact. May we pursue knowledge of Him above anything else. Blessings!
So good, Joanne. I confess that I’m continually filtering and winnowing my motives for the studying I do. Writing and teaching carry a huge responsibility so studying is crucial, but it’s not about piling up knowledge so that I can “feel smart” or “look smart.” Thanks for that incisive quote from the Imitation of Christ. I think that needs to go onto my reading list.
Michele, you offered such wise advice no matter what we do – may we always check our motives. And may the Lord keep us in the humble place of serving Him with a pure heart. Thank you for sharing. It meant a lot especially today! xo
YES! Humble in knowledge and willing to dig deeper into God’s truths. That is my desire. I did achieve schooling past a Master’s degree but I will be the first to tell you that I know very little. Until we know God we know very little.
Mary, I love that you say with all your schooling, you know little. It is true that the most important knowledge is that we know Him. Always blessed by your words!
There is such wisdom in your post, Joanne. I did go to college, and even got a Master’s degree that enabled me to get a teaching job. The funny thing is, I did the most learning in front of my students. Schooling can open doors, but those open doors are often useless if we don’t apply what we’ve learned.
And yes, those degrees can add stature, but they can also add pride. Wise is the person who finds their identity in Jesus rather than in their accomplishments! 🙂
Your words are affirming and life giving which I so appreciated. Thank you. I have come to find that I am exactly who I was meant to be. I am also discovering that even our lack can become much as we place it in His hands. And for that find myself most grateful. Blessings!