The Danger of Zeal Without Knowledge

Daily Devotional—Sunday, May 11, 2025
Even zeal is no good without knowledge, and he who hurries his footsteps misses the mark.
Proverbs 19:2 (NKJV)

A student I knew back in university was full of fire for God and eager to share his beliefs. One day, he strongly rebuked some classmates for using illicit drugs and ended up with bruises. He meant well but lacked the wisdom and grace to make the difference. His zeal was misguided.

Uninformed Enthusiasm

Before His conversion, Paul persecuted the early Christians. He later admitted, “I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries… being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.” (Galatians 1:14). His passion was real but misdirected.

Jesus has called us to share the gospel, but how we do it matters just as much as that we do it. Too often, we rush in without asking God for the wisdom to know when, how, and to whom we should speak. In our urgency, we can offend rather than inspire, turning people away rather than pointing them to Christ.

The Danger of Zeal Without Knowledge

When we study the Bible sincerely and reflect on it personally, it humbles us. It helps us see others through the eyes of Jesus—with compassion, not condemnation. It reminds us to be patient, to plant seeds gently, and to trust God to grow them. People must be free to choose Christ for themselves.

How deeply are you immersing yourself in God’s word so you can grow in faith and gain insight for sharing it? Are you approaching others with empathy and understanding? Is your passion for Christ guided by His love, His truth, and an awareness of our shared humanity?

Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to balance passion with wisdom. Let my zeal for You draw others in rather than push them away. Teach me to speak truth with grace and to reflect Your love in all I do.