“If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.“
“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.” – James 3: 13-18 (NLT)
How often do we consider the source of our wisdom? Where does it come from? James helps us by drawing a clear distinction between two kinds of wisdom.
Worldly wisdom, tainted by bitter envy and selfish ambition, gives birth to disorder and chaos. This wisdom, he warns, is not of divine origin but is earthly, unspiritual and even demonic in nature. It promises knowledge, but in the end is self-seeking, disobedient, and incapable of understanding anything spiritual in nature.
Heavenly wisdom, on the other hand, is characterized by purity, a peace-loving attitude, considerate actions, submission, mercy, and fruitful outcomes. It is impartial and sincere, fostering an environment of peace and righteousness. James challenges us to embody this heavenly wisdom in our daily lives.
Friend, true wisdom and understanding lies not merely in eloquent words or lofty ideals but in the practical outworking of a good life that is demonstrated through deeds that are rooted in genuine humility.
Let us approach the throne of Grace today and seek the only true wisdom, God’s wisdom.
Former Blackout Artist 