always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth. [2 timothy 3:7]

it is very possible to gain an incredible amount of information about God, but have no personal love for him. the pharisees knew the law backwards and forwards and yet Jesus tells them that all of their knowledge (and even their actions) do not mean they have lives that are submitted to the king.

woe to you, scribes and pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness. [matthew 23:27]

in fact, scripture says that even the demons know who God is. but they fail to see his beauty and worthiness.

you believe that God is one; you do well. even the demons believe—and shudder! [james 2:19]

the false teachers paul warns about can have all the facts they want but if they do not cry out to Jesus then they have missed the most important thing – he is the only one that is worthy and is the only source of power unto salvation. even believers are still learning what it looks like to rest fully in this truth as opposed to our own understanding.

do you turn to the father through prayer as much as you scour the scriptures for knowledge? do you find yourself reading biblical commentaries regularly, but rarely do you sing praises to God? theological debates excite you but repentance is not part of your regular rhythm of life?

all of these things are good. but it is possible to become filled with head knowledge that gives the appearance of a contrite heart, but in reality allows us to keep the gospel at arms length, just like the pharisees. spend time in the presence of God today and ask him to join your head knowledge to your heart. ask him to grow your affection for him, and be refreshed by his glory today.

trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.

it will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.

[proverbs 3:5-8]

~ keith kozlowski