“Be careful not to let yourself be carried away by curiosity” (Inner Word).
This exhortation is part of the spiritual formation of those who follow the Lord, and it would be very wise for us to take it to heart and put it into practice.
Precisely when it comes to curiosity, we may easily forget how harmful it can be. It differs from legitimate interest in that it stirs up a certain greed—a need to know this or that. Greed always promises a false sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, keeping the soul in an unhealthy state of alertness. This state should not be confused with the watchful openness to the guidance of our Heavenly Father, nor with the attentiveness through which the soul remains attuned to Him.
Although curiosity may pertain to secondary matters that, in themselves, do not have a major negative impact on the soul, it remains a spiritual disorder that ultimately weakens it. We can recognize it within ourselves when it stirs restlessness and euphoria, which can throw our soul off balance.
Today’s quote warns us against “active curiosity,” which should never guide our actions. We must rein it in and not allow it to control our lives. “Passive curiosity”—that is, curiosity that has not yet manifested outwardly—is easier to manage. Active curiosity, however, leads to actions and can therefore become dangerous. Consider how many misfortunes have befallen people because of curiosity and the trouble they have gotten into.
We must gradually cultivate an attitude of waiting on the Lord. If there is something important we need to know, God will ensure we understand it. In our dialogue with Him, we can continually examine whether what our curiosity asks of us is truly good for our soul. Our Father will help us sense this, and, over time, we will recognize that urge as a source of unease and confront it. Patience and the ability to wait are the appropriate antidotes.