The second section of James chapter 3 describes who is wise and the characteristics of the wise. Also described, is one who is not wise, but is ungodly. Proverbs is considered the book on wisdom in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, James describes wisdom very well. James helps us analyze our own life and consider what we are doing that is wise and what is unwise and ungodly that we may be participating in. One of those characteristics I wrote about yesterday, pertains to our tongue and how we speak.
Key Verses
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. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17 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. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
James 3:13-18
Who Is Wise? Wisdom That Is From Heaven(Godly Wisdom)
- Pure
- Loves Peace
- Considerate
- Submissive
- Full of Mercy
- See good fruit
- Impartial
- Sincere
Is “Wisdom” That Is Ungodly, Really Wise?
- Bitter envy
- Selfish ambition
- Earthly(worldly)
- Unspiritual
- Demonic
Choose Godly Wisdom
These verses are very clear about how a wise person lives. They are humble. People see the outcome of wisdom in their life. They see fruit of someone that is committed to do what is right before God. Peaceful living also is demonstrated by living according to wisdom.
I often read the advice that is given on Reddit. I give some advice as well, only what is Biblical and wise. It is interesting how many people do not care one bit about spiritual wisdom. They tell the reader what they do personally, what they think and what other people want to hear. There are still those who give the best wisdom they can give and some offer very spiritual wisdom. These people are giving worldly, earthly, unspiritual advice that is from Satan. When spiritual wisdom is not given, it is unspiritual naturally. Take time to look at these characteristics and make wise choices.
Describing Wisdom From The Beginning Of Proverbs
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young—
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:1-7
We just talked about wisdom in BSF this morning and I have just been listening to a Tim Keller series on wisdom! Think God is trying to tell us something 👌🏼
Wisdom is so important!!! Applying God’s Word to life and letting His Word speak to us and impact the decisions we make! I love both Proverbs and James a lot. I have done a BSF study before also! Great! Thank you for commenting, God bless you!
I literally read the Book of James the day before yesterday! You did an amazing job!
Oh thank you!!! It’s a great book! Lots of practical life application in James!
Definitely!