The Problem of Too Much Knowledge
by Liz Griffin
In the Bible Daniel was prophesying about the end times without any idea of the information technology revolution which has happened in this millennium. His words seem particularly relevant to our modern world of television, the internet, mobile phones, social media and email communication. ‘But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book, until the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase’ (Daniel 12:4, ESV).
Yet all the information in the world will not bring us closer to contentment or solve any of our deep problems. The last two years have shown us all the limitations to our human knowledge and scientific understanding. Coronavirus has shaken our complacency and brought to the world a sense of helplessness about planning for the future with any certainty.
Long ago King Solomon attempted to gain knowledge and understanding of everything in the world, but came to this conclusion, ‘The wiser you are, the more worries you have; the more you know, the more it hurts’ (Ecclesiastes 1:18, GNT). We can choose to open our technological devices and find out about every tragedy and trauma that happens around the entire world practically the instant it happens. We are also constantly told the worst-case scenario for our daily lives and societies which could happen to us within the next week.
In contrast to this we can find King David describing a place of peace with Father God. It is possible, he says, to find the utter peace of an innocent baby who is dependent upon its mother. ‘Lord, I have given up my pride and turned away from my arrogance. I am not concerned with great matters or with subjects too difficult for me. Instead, I am content and at peace. As a child lies quietly in its mother's arms, so my heart is quiet within me’ (Psalm 131:1-2, GNT).
In this battle for the mind, it is all too easy to lie awake at night with anxious thoughts what tomorrow might bring. I need to be constantly reminded that I can choose to trust in the Lord with all my heart and not lean on my own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). There are many things which are not my responsibility, and they do not require any action on my part.
One of my favourite old hymns starts with these words: ‘Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us o’er this world’s tempestuous sea. Guard us, guide us, keep us, feed us. For we have no help but Thee. Yet possessing every blessing, if our God our Father be’ (James Edmeston).
Liz Griffin lived for 20 years as an expatriate in South Africa, Bahrain and Japan, as her husband Paul worked for an international oil company. Paul and Liz became involved with Ellel Ministries in 1991 as part of the ministry team and joined the full-time team at Ellel Grange in 1995. Paul and Liz teach and minister to those seeking healing in their lives and together have written two books, 'Anger - How Do You Handle It' and 'Hope and Healing For The Abused'.
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