The Bible encourages balance and awareness, reminding us to hold multiple truths in perspective. It says, “If you know one, do not forget about the other.” While these exact words may not appear in Scripture, the meaning is clear: we are called to live with humility, faith, and a recognition of deeper truths.
Throughout the Bible, we are urged to embrace radical and sometimes improbable actions.
For example:
Matthew 20:16 (NIV):
“So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Jesus spoke these words in the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) to teach His disciples about the nature of God’s kingdom. He highlighted how it often defies human expectations.
Consider these examples of the Bible’s paradoxical teachings:
- Where one is proud, they are called to humility.
- Where one is overly humble and self-deprecating, they are called to recognize their worth.
- Those who see themselves as rich and self-sufficient are reminded they may be the poorest of beggars.
- Meanwhile, those who are materially poor are lifted up and declared royalty in God’s kingdom.
These teachings illustrate a deeper principle: If you know one, do not forget about the other. For instance, if you know you are poor, do not forget that you are rich in God’s eyes—so live confidently, as if you are rich. Conversely, if you are wealthy, live humbly, as though you are poor, for true riches are stored in heaven.
In the context of this balance, ask yourself:
What do you know, and what is the other you wish not to forget?
