"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual and demonic.
James 3:13-15 NKJV
David Jeremiah writes:
'With this passage, James presents the dramatic contrast between earthly and heavenly wisdom'.
A person's life reflects the source of their wisdom. Those who have a sound relationship with God, are understanding and concerned for others. They demonstrate the wisdom of Heaven. In contrast, those who are not walking with Him, will be sensual and selfish, reflecting the wisdom of Satan.
God's wisdom is offered continually (James 1:5) to meet the many demands that we face in any given day. Let us take a look at seven characteristics of Godly wisdom:
Purity. Wisdom is based on God's holiness. He is morally blameless and totally incapable of producing sin in any form. (James 4:8)
Peaceable. True peace is always grown out of purity. When we are walking in purity and God's peace, it will affect people around us. (Isaiah 26:3, John 14:27, Philippians 4:7)
Gentleness. Strife come from belonging to the world, but gentleness is a characteristic of God's servants as they go about their day. (Matthew 11:29)
Willing to take instruction. God's people are ready and willing to learn about Him and serve Him as they walk in His ways. Someone who is unwilling to take instruction should be treated with caution. Such people may be puffed up with pride, wanting their own way all the time.
Full of Mercy and Good Fruit. God's wisdom must be demonstrated in word and truth, living up to our calling, introducing Jesus to whoever we meet.
Without Partiality. God's people should never discriminate against others
Without Hypocrisy. The hypocrite says one thing and does another. Wisdom is sincere and real. Wisdom doesn't play games. Wisdom is transparent.
As we have seen, wisdom is freely available to whoever asks God for it. We cannot live without it. We need wisdom to guide us along the truth, discerning what God wants of us. Walking in the Spirit will always equip you with this. He is full of wisdom.
Copyriight 2021 Grahame Howard
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