If you wish to attain to true knowledge of the Scriptures, hasten to acquire first an unshakeable humility of heart. That alone will lead you, not to the knowledge that puffs up, but to that which enlightens, by the perfecting of love.
Interpretation
True knowledge of the Scriptures requires humility and love, rather than arrogance.
This quote emphasizes that genuine understanding of the Scriptures is not achieved through mere intellectual pursuit, but rather through cultivating a humble heart. Such humility fosters love, which ultimately leads to enlightenment and a deeper connection with the wisdom contained in sacred texts.
In practice
In a sermon about the importance of approaching faith with humility.
We are often indifferent to our brethren who are distressed or upset, on the grounds that they are in this state through no fault of ours. The Doctor of souls, however, wishing to root out the soul's excuses from the heart, tells us to leave our gift and to be reconciled not only if we happen to be upset by our brother, but also if he is upset by us, whether justly or unjustly; only when we have healed the breach through our apology should we offer our gift.
...we must first scrutinize thoroughly anything appearing in our hearts or any saying suggested to us. Has it come purified from the divine and heavenly fire of the Holy Spirit? Or does it lean toward Jewish superstition? Is its surface piety something which has come down from bloated worldly philosophy? We must examine this most carefully, doing as the apostle bids us: 'Do not believe in every spirit, but make sure to find out if spirits are from God'.
The Doctor of our souls has placed the remedy in the hidden regions of the soul.
Your biggest opponent isn't the other guy. It's human nature.
The trouble was, I had been inadequate all along, I simply hadn't thought about it.
These heavy troubles are heralds of weighty mercies.
And thou my minde aspire to higher things;_x000D_ _x000D_ Grow rich in that which never taketh rust.
Of all that writ, he was the wisest bard, who spoke this mighty truth- He that knew all that ever learning writ, Knew only this-that he knew nothing yet.
Wisdom, humanity & courage, these three are universal virtues. The way by which they are practiced are one.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.