Which is better: to spend most of one's time in studying and acquiring worldly knowledge, or in acts of worship such as dhikr, prayer, and reading the Quran, knowing that both are intended for the worship of Allah?

A Muslim worships Allah in all his states. His studying and seeking knowledge are acts of worship if he intends thereby to benefit Muslims, honor his parents, benefit the Ummah, and become independent of asking people. These are acts of worship with immense reward. He must organize his time to perform all obligatory duties completely, increase in easy and consistent supererogatory acts, and adhere to the remembrance of Allah Almighty through all absolute and prescribed forms of remembrance. All of this benefits the servant. Allah Almighty has not commanded us to abandon the world, seek knowledge, and earn a living. Rather, He has prescribed for us a suitable act of worship in every state. The prophets and righteous people used to earn a living. Strive in your studies, keeping in mind the righteous intentions, knowing that you will be rewarded for it. Fill your time with the remembrance and worship of Allah, without falling short in your duties, for performing them prepares you to benefit yourself and the Muslims.