Going too Far

I absolutely love to read. I love a good fiction book, but I especially love non-fiction that allows me to gain knowledge and insight into the world around me. My main area of study in school is psychology, so that says a lot about my interest in knowing why things happen the way they do. I appreciate and respect others who love to learn new things, as well. However, I found an important warning in the Bible this week that I think is important to remember.

Ecclesiastes 12:12

But about going further [than the words given by one Shepherd], my son, be warned. Of making many books there is no end [so do not believe everything you read], and much study is a weariness of the flesh.

People can sometimes get so deep into a search for knowledge that they try to go “beyond” wisdom even given by our Creator. This is naïve foolishness. People can forever write endlessly about everything, but if what they are saying cannot be weighed alongside the Word of God, we should not embrace it. I love more insight about people, relationships, families, and the world around me. However, I have to compare everything I read to the ultimate truth found in the Bible. If it goes against the Bible, it goes against my God, and it is not for me.

The one true test of our knowledge is this: Do I fear God in the decisions I’m making? Hey! Now that’s smart thinking :-).

Ecclesiastes 12: 13

All has been heard; the end of the matter is: Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and keep His commandments, for this is the whole of man [the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God’s providence, the root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man.

As I study and read the Word of God, it will be easy to see if something else I am reading is good for my soul and spirit. As I learn the commands God has given to me and my family, it will be obvious if I need to set something aside that is contrary to what God is already showing me. If someone claims to be so wise, but they are advising me to do things that go against what God has laid out for me in His Word, then by His gift of discernment I can reject that guidance as foolishness.

Romans 1:22

Claiming to be wise, they became fools [professing to be smart, they made simpletons of themselves].

God, I don’t want to follow after anyone that is not following after You. I want to learn all that I can, but if it contradicts Your Word I don’t want any part of it. Please give me and my family wisdom as we choose who to listen to for advice. Please bring Your Word back to my mind as I read information so that I can make sure that what I am learning is truly wise and not foolishness.

#education