Daily Devo

Puffed Up, or Building Up?

By: John Carrigan

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Now regarding your question about food that has been offered to idols. Yes, we know that “we all have knowledge” about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. 1 Corinthians 8:1 (NLT)

In the NIV, that verse is worded; “knowledge puffs up while love builds up.” An old saying describes that same concept, and it's an idea worth repeating: "People don’t care how much we know until they know how much we care." In other words, our knowledge and love must always work together. Spiritual knowledge is great. But unless it's mixed with love, it won't be very helpful. When we're prideful about what we know (no matter what the topic is) people may not want to be around us. Sometimes, we can be so right we're wrong!

Knowing when not to speak isn't easy, and it requires the Holy Spirit's help. But the longer we walk with Christ, the easier it should become. But knowing a biblical principle and applying it are two different things. For example, I've heard a weekend sermon and thought to myself; “so-and-so really needs to hear today's message!” Then, the Holy Spirit gently reminded me that the message was meant for me! I had the spiritual knowledge, but I wasn't applying it to my own life. If we're not careful, we can even say the right thing for the wrong reasons and the wrong thing for the right reasons!

Warren Wiersbe has a great illustration about knowledge, and children are part of his example. When a child is afraid of the dark, they're usually worried about what might be hiding in the closet. The mother knows her child is safe, but that knowledge can't comfort her child... but her love can! Knowledge can't argue a child's fear away, and knowledge can't argue more faith into an adult. Spiritual understanding is a gift from God, and it's facilitated by the Holy Spirit. But we must always use that gift to bring God glory. Beating people up with our Bibles (our knowledge) isn't helpful, and it probably won't point them towards Jesus. When you speak God's truth, remember to always do it in love and with kindness!

Christ follower, let's make sure we're using our spiritual knowledge to encourage and help others. Lord, help us stay humble so we will be able reflect Your light to our dark world!