UNDERSTANDING the TRUTH about ‘HEAVENLY’ WISDOM!
December 17 Bible Reading: James Chapters 1-3
UNDERSTANDING the TRUTH about ‘HEAVENLY’ WISDOM!
"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that
his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable,
gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and
without hypocrisy." (James 3:13, 17)
The ‘heavenly’ wisdom of which James speaks is
practical and relational that is evidenced by godly attitudes and actions. He exhorts
believers to demonstrate their faith through works and demonstrate their wisdom
by godly living. The outward sign of ‘heavenly’
wisdom is a gentle and humble spirit.
Our Lord Jesus was meek and lowly in heart (Matt. 11:29). Therefore, all who
are truly wise will have the hallmark
of genuine humility!
‘Heavenly’ wisdom that comes from God has the following characteristics:
- It is pure in thoughts, words, deeds, spirit, body, doctrine, practice, faith and morals.
- It is peaceable and will love to maintain peace in every situation without sacrificing purity.
- It is gentle, courteous, and respectful of the feelings of others.
- It is willing to yield, open to reason and ready to give in when truth requires it.
- It is full of mercy to those who are in the wrong, and anxious to help them find the right way.
- It is full of good fruits by being compassionate and kind.
- It is without partiality and does not produce favoritism.
- It is without hypocrisy by being sincere and genuine.
James says that ‘heavenly’
wisdom is necessary in a teacher. The
teacher must exhibit a meek and practical application of the truth. One cannot
teach what one does not live. The wisdom that comes from God is first pure, then promotes peace, and finally
ends in righteousness (vv. 17, 18). Through the heavenly wisdom we have the
ability to view life from God’s perspective along with mental perception and
comprehension that God will bestow upon us.
Is there bitterness in
our hearts or envy? Are we speaking from God’s wisdom or the wisdom of the
world? Are we peacemakers or troublemakers? If your hearts are right before God, He will use ours
words to produce the right kind of fruit in our lives. Our outward behavior will
reflect if we are wise as we control our tongues and place our minds
deliberately under the authority of God in order to let God control us. Let us
ask God in faith to grant us heavenly wisdom today!
