I spend much of my life attempting to understand the Bible as it was originally written. I read the Bible as a whole, do in-depth study, dive into Christian books, and open myself up to knowledgeable teachers. My quest is to have nearly flawless Biblical theology.

Recently, after a heartbreaking meeting with a couple, I jotted down a note as a reminder of that moment. I wrote simply, “Theological perfection only matters in the classroom, not in the hospital, cancer ward, battlefield, or funeral home.”

As a pastor, I am sometimes called into miserable situations, and in those, no one has ever grilled me on my theology to make sure I believed exactly as they did. In those circumstances, people do not care about your theology; they only desire your presence and prayers. It’s a little ironic: the places where Christian presence is needed most are also the places where precise theology matters least.

If you follow Jesus, you have enough information to make a lasting impact in the world for his kingdom. I want you to keep learning and growing in your faith, but know that in many situations, your overall knowledge is secondary. Make sure your heart grows along with your head.