Do you ever feel overwhelmed when you read or watch the news and learn of all the evil going on in our world? Do you ever discover a disappointing truth about someone, and become a little sorrowful because you held them in such high esteem? There is a Bible verse in Ecclesiastes that explains this to us, and it goes well with the age old saying “Ignorance is bliss”.
First off, let me say that God does not want us to stay in the dark completely. (The phrase “I would not have you ignorant…” occurs three times in scripture, along with other ways the same phrase is used.) We should not keep our hearts and heads buried in the sand, so to speak. We must be aware of things around us. This way we can put on the full armor of God each day, prepared to battle against principalities and spiritual darkness that come our way.
For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.
Ecclesiastes 1:18
When I first read this verse, I thought it strange. This verse is found in the midst of two books of the Bible FULL of wisdom. Filled with verses about how wisdom is key, wisdom is a blessing, wisdom is godly. Etc. So why in the world is this verse stuck here, saying that wisdom causes grief and increases sorrow? I had to study it out.
Here is the breakdown of what this verse is ACTUALLY saying, in its originally intended language/translation:
“For in much wisdom is much grief <from others>: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow <mental/physical pain>.”
This verse serves as a warning to us. As a Christian who is learning, studying scripture, staying close to God, we will increase in wisdom and knowledge. However, oftentimes as we get closer to God, we will suffer grief from others. Your friends and family, coworkers and strangers alike will begin to tease you for your walk with God. Your change in lifestyle, and stand for Christ will become a talking point for those around you. Often resulting in the last half of this verse – sorrow. Being the butt of jokes in the office break room is hurtful. Having family mock you for your stand on certain convictions and doctrines causes mental pain and sadness. If nothing else, it breaks your heart because they don’t see things from God’s perspective.
Thank God he gives us verses in the Bible to comfort us, and reassure us that we are not alone in this sorrow. He suffered likewise when he was here on earth, and he is familiar with our emotions and knows just how to help us.
Romans 8:26 “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”
Hebrews 4:15 “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
So in conclusion, it is true that the more you know, the more you could be overwhelmed. But let’s flip this into a positive way of thinking. The more you know, the greater the opportunity for Christ to show himself mighty in your life. By giving you comfort, peace, and boldness to stand in these last days. Give it all to him. Ask him to help you filter out the discouraging voices, and the nay-sayers. Only focus on the will of God for you and the direction your life is headed.
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
