But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. James 3:17 WEB
James has been describing the wisdom of the world. Worldly wisdom is driven by selfishness and greed. The end of this kind of wisdom is disorder and destruction.
King Solomon gives us an understanding of Godly wisdom stating in Proverbs 3:13-18, “Happy is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gets understanding. For her good profit is better than getting silver, and her return is better than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies. None of the things you can desire are to be compared to her. Length of days is in her right hand. In her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness. All her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her. Happy is everyone who retains her. WEB”
Someone Greater than Solomon
Godly wisdom is not worldly wisdom. It seeks first the will of God. The end of wisdom from above is patience, sacrifice and service to others. Solomon was known for his wisdom, but Christ says in Matthew 12:42, “someone greater than Solomon is here.” Jesus Christ is the perfect example of Godly wisdom.
The wisdom that comes from Christ is gentle, merciful, and pure. In the end, worldly possessions will not satisfy. Striving after more and more in the material world leads to confusion. Living in Godly wisdom leads to good fruits. It is the ability to apply God’s will and Godly principles to everyday life.
Prayer: “Father God. Give me wisdom to understand your word and the ability to put your word into practice in my daily life. Lead me to express the fruits of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Making the Most of Opportunity
