“Who among you is wise and intelligent? Let him by his good conduct show his [good] deeds with the gentleness and humility of true wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant, and [as a result] be in defiance of the truth. This [superficial] wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthy (secular), natural (unspiritual), even demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice.
But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile]. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals].” - James 3:13-18 (Amplified Bible)
Friends, don’t you wish you always made the right decision? I sure do! I want to live a life that mirrors Godly wisdom.
Just as true faith can’t help but produce fruit, likewise, true wisdom is reflected in the life and character of a person. As faith without life-change is ultimately a dead faith, wisdom as the world knows it is rooted through a superficial means. Thankfully, we don’t have to lean on ourselves to figure out how to be wise (that’s what the worldly wisdom is all about). The Holy Spirit is our guide in all things – what a relief!
The brother of Jesus, James, speaks to the reality that a person that follows Jesus, will produce wisdom that measures up to the name they’re following. That we can have wisdom, as Jesus had wisdom.
James 1:5 tells us that “if any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
I don’t know about you, but I certainly want my life to reflect the name I’m wearing as a banner over me. I don’t want the wisdom as the world knows it – I’m wanting the wisdom of Jesus to be produced in and through me, shown through my character, words and actions. I’m asking for some wisdom again today, how about you? Are you leaning on yourself for it? Others? Or are you seeking the One that true wisdom emanates from?
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