Tuesday, September 27th, 2022

What does wisdom sound like when we hear it? We’ve all certainly heard things in life that we acted upon, thinking it to be wise. Sometimes this has worked well, sometimes not. So how do we know? James speaks directly to this. He says, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their 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, demonic. 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 reap a harvest of righteousness.” The difference between Godly wisdom and earthly wisdom is not always in the content of the message, but it is always in the posture of the heart. Godly wisdom comes peaceably and seeks to glorify God in humility. Earthly wisdom comes in selfish ambition. Godly wisdom is practiced in producing spiritual fruit while earthly wisdom is practiced in selfish gain. Actions may affect short term outcomes, and we all will make mistakes, but purpose determines the long term outcome. Today, if you are trying to understand what God wants for you next in your life, look for His wisdom and know it by the posture of your own heart.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their 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, demonic. 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 reap a harvest of righteousness.” — James 3:13-18 NIV