“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:13-18 (NIV)
James cautions everyone about wanting to be a teacher, since teachers have a greater accountability (v.1). Teaching others is a huge responsibility. Many of us forget that other people can discern whether or not we have wisdom and understanding. It isn’t that they can see it, but that they perceive it about us. Consider James’ words in today’s passage.
Wisdom and understanding are evident by one’s lifestyle. Living “above our means” or within them sends a message. Servanthood is not currently popular in Christianity, but Jesus taught it and the apostles modeled it. The nature of our service to others sends a message about the quality of our wisdom and understanding. A good lifestyle and humble service are the good ground that will produce a harvest.
On the other hand: bitterness, envy, selfish ambition, boasting, denial of truth are all evidences of earthly, unspiritual works of the devil. Such attitudes and actions create chaos and evil practices. Neither wisdom nor understanding here.
In comparison, heaven’s wisdom is pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, merciful, impartial, sincere, and produces good fruit. Here is the wisdom we want others to perceive. With this kind of seed in the ground how could you not gain a huge harvest of righteousness?
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. We ask that you empower us with your wisdom so that we might produce a great harvest of righteousness for your glory. This we ask in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his wisdom and live wisely,