The wise and unwise
James 3:13-18
If we could be guaranteed the receipt of any request from the Lord, for what would we ask?
Solomon, the king of Israel, replied to the Lord’s astounding offer:.
Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people, for who can rule this great people of Yours? (2 Chronicles 1:10).
Solomon asked for wisdom — not earthly wisdom but wisdom that could only come from God. James wrote to Christians in the first century that they would be wise to seek the same from heaven.
James understood how critical wisdom is for enduring trials. But he also knew the human tendencies to rely on self-guidance, common sense, and worldly advice when tough times arise. That’s why he wrote:
Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom ( James 3:13)
What is godly wisdom?
A reliable principle for living is it’s not only important what we do in response to trials but how we do what we do.
James contrasted divine wisdom and human wisdom.
Divine wisdom is genuine ( James 3:13)
Marked by good behavior.
Marked by gentleness.
Human wisdom is counterfeit ( James 3:14).
James made clear that the two corresponding markers of human wisdom — bitter jealousy and selfish ambition — reside deep within the motive chamber of the unwise heart.
James also indicated selfish ambition to be a clear sign that someone was operating by human wisdom.
Lord, Thank You for Your Word and for Your Holy Spirit which light the path & help us make the right decisions.
Sol Bindu Saji