Caution is in order for those of us who think we are smarter than we are. I am so prone to confidently speak concerning issues about which I know nothing.
Larry Stout, a friend living in Riga, Lativa, recently shared a list called: When Experts are wrong: Quotes of Misjudgments. Here are a few quotes from that list:
- "Louis Pasteur's theory of germs is ridiculous fiction." Pierre Pachet, Professor of Physiology at Toulouse 1972.
- "For the majority of people, smoking has a beneficial effect." Dr. Ian G. Macdonald, Los Angeles surgeon quoted in NEWSWEEK November 18, 1963.
- "Man will never reach the moon regardless of all future scientific advances." Dr. Lee De Forest, inventor of the vacuum tube and father of television.
- "I think there is a world market for maybe five computers." Thomas Watson, Chairman of IBM 1943.
- "640 K ought to be enough for anybody." Bill Gates 1981.
Understanding often eludes even the smartest of people. Spiritual understanding is like that as well. Trying to understanding spiritual concepts in my own intellect often falls woefully short. Jesus after denouncing those who arrogantly rejected the repentance He offered said,
"I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children." (Matthew 11:25 NIV)
When God tells us that He esteems humility, I guess He was referring to my intellect as well as other parts of my character. Moving from intellectual arrogance to intellectual humility is critical to my well-being. Will you join me in some much needed practice of intellectual humility?
Sharing the journey with you,
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