The quotation, "Knowledge is power", is attributed to Francis Bacon, but the meaning given to it varies from author to author. The phrase often implies that with knowledge or education, one's potential or abilities in life will certainly increase, such as improving one's reputation and influence, thus having power. But power in its negative form can become dictatorial and insensitive, thus creating disorder, confusion, and even wars.

During our lifetime, we acquire a lot of "head" knowledge from reading books, searching the Internet, watching television, listening to music, and having conversations with others. Yet, we can be deficient in "heart" knowledge, which is freely given by the Spirit of God.

Jesus did not attend universities, yet He dumbfounded the scribes and pharisees with His wisdom. Jesus asked questions and was a good listener. He accepted all people, except the ones who used their knowledge of laws for their own benefit.

1 Corinthians 2:5-6 – I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God. Yet when I am among mature believers, I do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. (NLT)

Heart knowledge or wisdom means being filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. With the Holy Spirit guiding and leading us, we will be able to love others, to be joyful with one another, to have peace within our hearts, to be patient with others as well as ourselves, to show deeds of kindness, and to forgive those who have wronged us.

Colossians 1:9b-10 – That you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (NASB)

Are we following and loving Jesus with both head and heart?

Prayer: Lord God, head knowledge is helpful if it is used to bring about goodness, healing, and mercy to others. May we be filled with heart knowledge so that we can love others as You love us. Amen.

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About the author:

Rosemary Hagedorn <rosyhagedorn@gmail.com>
Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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