As I sat listening to a young married couple talk about their life, I had all I could do to keep my mouth shut.  I had so many things I wanted to tell them –  things that would make their lives so much better.  I had the gift of knowledge and I wanted to gift it to them.  Fortunately, I kept my mouth shut!

Knowledge is a wonderful thing.  But nobody wants to receive the gift of knowledge if is not beautifully wrapped!

Knowledge has the power to make us puffy.  It can make us feel superior.  1 Corinthians 8 :1 states it this way, “Knowledge makes arrogant”.  It puffs us up.  It makes us feel like a Somebody!

But knowledge without love actually makes us a Nobody!  1 Corinthians 13:2 explains that “if we know all mysteries and all knowledge but do not have love, we are nothing.”

So how do I know when I should share my gift of knowledge?  Here are some questions I ask myself.

1. Did they ask for my gift of knowledge?
2. What is my attitude?  Do I feel superior?
3. What is the purpose of sharing?  Do I want to build up or tear down?

Knowledge wrapped in love is both humble and helpful.  Knowledge wrapped in love entwines grace and truth.

Knowledge wrapped in love is indeed a true gift.  It is sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.  It is pleasant as honeycomb.  Proverbs 16:24

And perhaps even more importantly, knowledge wrapped in sweetness is more persuasive.  Proverbs 16:21

So the next time you feel like giving your spouse or child or coworker your gift of knowledge, make sure you first take the time to wrap it!

If you don’t have time to wrap it, keep it for yourself!