Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned the following:
The reason for me having great confidence in my Deeni elders is not because I regard them to be the most learned ‘Ulama in the world, as I know that it is possible that there are other ‘Ulama in the world who may have more knowledge than them.
Rather, the main reason for my confidence in them is that I found them to be people of Allah Ta‘ala. They were not people of the world. Though they lived in the world, but they were not influenced at all by the world and its attractions. They remained distant from the desire for name and fame, wealth and riches.
Their only work in the world was to serve Deen and fulfil what Deen required from them at all times – even if it meant them sacrificing all their personal benefits and comforts (they were prepared to do so).
(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 24/79-80)
Source: Ihyaauddeen.co.za