In our daily walk, we’re constantly faced with choices, big and small. We seek guidance, understanding, and clarity. But where do we find true north, the wisdom that navigates us through the complexities of life? As I’ve reflected on the teachings of James 3:13-18, the contrast between worldly wisdom and the God’s wisdom from above has become increasingly clear.

The Call to Show Wisdom Through Our Conduct

James poses a powerful question: “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” (James 3:13, NIV). It’s not enough to claim wisdom; our lives should be a testament to it. Our actions, our conduct, should reflect the meekness and humility that genuine wisdom produces. This isn’t about intellectual prowess or worldly acclaim, but about a humble living that wisely reflects God’s principles.

We live in an age saturated with information. Knowledge is readily available, yet it doesn’t automatically translate into wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to take that knowledge and apply it practically in our lives, guided by a higher understanding. For us as believers, this means reflecting a wisdom that transcends the earthly realm, a wisdom that has its roots in God Himself.

Contrasting Earthly and Heavenly Wisdom

James paints a stark contrast between two types of wisdom. He warns, “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” (James 3:14-15, NIV).

This earthly wisdom is characterized by bitter envy, a discontentment with the blessings of others, and selfish ambition, a drive rooted in self-seeking rather than God’s will. It’s “earthly,” focused solely on the material world; “unspiritual” or “sensual,” relying on human intellect and feelings without divine revelation; and even “demonic,” influenced by dark spiritual forces that seek to deceive and confuse. Where envy and self-seeking reign, James says, “confusion and every evil thing are there” (James 3:16, NIV). This resonates deeply when we look at the conflicts and brokenness in our world and even in our own hearts.

But there is another wisdom, a wisdom that is from above. James beautifully describes it: “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” (James 3:17, NIV). This wisdom has a moral purity, untainted by sin. It is peace-loving, seeking reconciliation and harmony. Considerate and gentle, willing to yield rather than being stubbornly self-assertive. It is full of mercy and good fruit, showing compassion and producing actions that benefit others. It is impartial, showing no favoritism, and sincere, without hypocrisy. The fruit of such wisdom is righteousness, sown in peace by those who make peace (James 3:18).

Sources of Wisdom from Above

So, how do we access this wisdom from above? I’ve come to understand there are key avenues through which God imparts His wisdom.

Firstly, Jesus Christ Himself is the wisdom of God. As 1 Corinthians 1:30 tells us, “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption” (NKJV). Coming to faith in Christ opens our lives to this divine wisdom. It is through Jesus that we truly understand God’s heart, His love, and His plans for us.

Secondly, God’s Word, the Bible, is a wellspring of wisdom. As 2 Timothy 3:15 states, “…from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (NKJV). Scripture reveals God’s thoughts and ways, which are far higher than our own (Isaiah 55:8-9). By reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible, we gain insight into God’s wisdom and how to live according to His will.

Thirdly, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, reveals wisdom within us. Paul prayed for believers in Ephesians 1:17-18, “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened…” (NKJV). The Holy Spirit illuminates our hearts and minds, giving us spiritual understanding and guiding us in God’s wisdom.

Living a Life Empowered by God’s Wisdom

Choosing to walk in God’s wisdom is a daily decision. It requires us to examine the source of our thoughts, motivations, and actions. When faced with a decision, we can ask: Is this pure? Is it peaceable? What about gentle and willing to yield? Is it full of mercy and good fruit, without partiality and hypocrisy? These are the litmus tests for discerning wisdom from above.

Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, laid a foundation of wisdom that often seems counter-cultural. Loving our enemies, turning the other cheek, and going the extra mile are not acts of worldly wisdom but rather manifestations of God’s higher wisdom, His grace, and His love. Jesus concluded this powerful sermon by saying that those who hear His words and put them into practice are like a wise person who built their house on the rock, unshaken by the storms of life (Matthew 7:24-25). Conversely, those who hear but do not act are like a foolish person whose house built on sand collapses when trouble comes (Matthew 7:26-27).

Three Applications for Embracing God’s Wisdom

For me personally, reflecting on wisdom from above brings three key applications to the forefront:

• A Right Relationship with Jesus Christ: He is our wisdom. Our journey begins with accepting Him as Lord and Savior.
• A Right Relationship with God’s Word: We must commit to obeying the Bible, allowing it to be the ultimate authority in our lives. Even when it’s challenging, our hearts should say “amen” to its truth, trusting in God’s guidance.
• Making Relationships Right: God’s wisdom calls us to be peacemakers, to forgive, and to be willing to yield in our interactions with others. Holding onto bitterness and offense hinders the flow of God’s wisdom in our lives.

My prayer is that we would all be empowered by wisdom from above, a wisdom that leads to a life of purity, peace, love, and good fruit. Let us seek Jesus, immerse ourselves in His Word, and listen to the guidance of His Spirit, so that our lives may truly reflect the wisdom of God in a world desperately seeking true understanding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, embracing wisdom from above is not a passive endeavor but an active pursuit rooted in our relationship with Christ, our obedience to His Word, and our willingness to live in peace and reconciliation with others. May we continually seek this divine wisdom that is pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

As you continue on your journey of seeking God’s guidance, you might find further encouragement and insight in exploring topics like How to Seek a New Perspective Praying for Breakthrough which touches on seeking divine intervention for clarity. Furthermore, understanding the impact of our words, as discussed in our study on The Power of Encouragement How to Grow Faith, can be a practical step in living wisely. Finally, for a deeper dive into aligning our lives with God’s will, consider reflecting on Taking the Next Step How to Embracing Gods Calling. May we all walk in the wisdom that leads to life and peace.

References

• CCM Study on James 3:13-18