When knowledge only sticks in a man’s head, and has no influence over his heart and life, it becomes a most perilous possession.

And when, in addition to this, its possessor is self-conceited and self-satisfied, and imagines he knows everything, the result is one of the worst states of soul into which man can fall.

There is far more hope about him who says, “I am a poor blind sinner and want God to teach me,” than about him who is ever saying, “I know it, I know it, I am not ignorant,” and yet cleaves to his sins.

The sin of that man “remains.” Let us use diligently whatever religious knowledge we possess, and ask continually that God would give us more.

Let us never forget that the devil himself is a creature of vast head-knowledge, and yet none the better for it, because it is not rightly used.

Let our constant prayer be that which David so often sent up in the hundred and nineteenth Psalm. “Lord, teach me your statutes give me understanding – unite my heart to fear Your name.”

J.C. Ryle

HT: Sola Sisters