"Who is wise and understanding among you? He should show his works by good conduct with wisdom’s gentleness. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t brag and lie in defiance of the truth. Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic … But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without favoritism and hypocrisy." –James 3:13-15,17
I once read about a basketball coach who told a player who received four Fs and one D on his report card, “Son, looks like you’re spending too much time on one subject.” That kind of wisdom is trouble. Too often wisdom is considered to be just “smarts,” but it is much more than that. Knowledge is knowing, but wisdom is knowing when to use it.
As competitors, wisdom is essential. Many competitors disqualify themselves because of poor choices off the field. It is always the right time to do the right thing. If you don’t know what to do, then you’ll get in trouble! James explains that there is a difference between wisdom from God and wisdom from the world. He challenges us to show our wisdom, in humility, through our daily walk. Next, he tells us to get rid of the junk in our hearts like envy and selfishness. These sins breed other sins. Then James challenges us to pursue godly wisdom, that God may produce a great harvest. Sow wisdom—reap purity. Sow purity—reap peace. Sow peace—reap righteousness.
1. Whom do you know who is full of godly wisdom?
2. What is the main difference between godly wisdom and worldly wisdom?
3. Why is it so hard to show wisdom in your walk?
Proverbs 1:7; 3:5-8,19-20; 23:23
Lord, help me pursue wisdom. Forgive me for ignoring the prompting of the Holy Spirit and making bad decisions. I want Your wisdom in my life. Help me walk in humility and sow wisdom that I might reap purity, peace, and righteousness. Amen.
