True Wisdom (Pt.2)

Part 2

“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 3:17-18

When it comes to knowledge, we signify what we know by the degrees hanging on our walls, the certifications in our portfolios, and the experience recorded on our resumes. However, James states that we signify wisdom by living an honorable life, doing good works, and operating in humility:

“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.”-James 3:13

So what does the wisdom of God look like? According to James the wisdom of God is first of all pure, meaning that it is motivated correctly. It is not rooted in our own selfish desires, but birthed out of a loving relationship with God. It is peace loving meaning that it looks to foster and maintain unity.

Wisdom is also displayed through gentleness, meaning that it is free from a controlling spirit always looking to build rather than divide. The Wisdom from above, as described by James, is also characterized by a willingness to yield to others, esteeming others better than oneself.

This wisdom is full of mercy, accepting that others are not perfect and is made known through good deeds. Wisdom is more than just words, but action. Godly wisdom does not show favoritism. It is not swayed by position, power, or wealth and it is always heartfelt and sincere.

Those who operate in Godly wisdom sow peace in order to reap righteousness. Yes, they are concerned about the outcome, but they are also concerned about how you get there.

No discussion, however, of wisdom is complete without an understanding of Proverbs 9:10:

“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.”

We cannot disconnect heavenly wisdom from a healthy reverence and fear of the Lord. He is the originator of all truth. He is the force behind all creation and all created things. He is the sustainer of all things. Knowing God is pivotal to our understanding of how to apply knowledge. True wisdom begins and ends with God!

Pastor Scott Burr
Dayspring Community Church