Wisdom That is From Above – A Few Final Words

    We have spent the first part of this year in taking a closer look at the facets of wisdom that is from above (James 3:13-17).

We have learned that wisdom from above is…

…first pure; pure to its very core, and not in any way defiled by sin, selfish interest, or harmful intent. Wisdom from above, at its very Source, is pure (I John 3:3). Its path is pure; it will not lead us astray or away from God. God’s pure words/commands will enlighten us (Psalm 19:8), chasten us (Hebrews 12:3-11), warn us, and correct us (2 Timothy 3:16-17); they will purify us to the very core when we, in wisdom, hear His words, obey His commands, heed His warnings, and make the necessary corrections.

…then peaceable; undisturbed and undisturbing. This wisdom is pacificatory (wanting to bring peace) and conciliatory (wanting to pacify, soothe, calmly resolve). Having/using wisdom from above helps us to be at peace in conflict (consider 1 Peter 2:20-23) and, as much as depends on us, it helps us to bring peace to the situation so that the conflict is resolved (Romans 12:18, Matthew 5:21-26).

…gentle; helping us to respond to situations appropriately, with mildness, patience, and moderation; it does what is suitable, fair/impartial, mild, and merciful. Think of God’s gentleness when we ask Him for wisdom when we are lacking; He is not disappointed or disapproving, but gives liberally to all who ask Him in faith (James 1:5-8), and consider His longsuffering patience with mankind because He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Read and take note of the benefits of gentleness in 1 Peter 3:1-4.   

…willing to yield; ready to obey, willing to yield your former thoughts and beliefs for the truth that is set before you. Willing to yield your pride, your notions; your own self (Matthew 10:37-38, 16:24, Luke 9:23, 2 Corinthians 5:15), to obey the true and proper way. Every time you choose God over self you are showing yourself wise in your willingness to yield, in your willingness to present your body a living sacrifice, in your willingness to choose holiness and acceptability to God over selfish, carnal desires, and in your willingness to be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:1-2)!

…full of mercy and good fruits; when we are full of mercy and good fruits our faith and service to God will be evident to all (1 Timothy 4:12-13, 15-16), even to those who hate us, curse us, persecute us, and spitefully use us, because we will not limit our love and care to only those who are loving and caring toward us (Matthew 5:44-48, 25:34-40, Titus 3:8-14).

…without partiality; unwavering, undivided, unambiguous. Wisdom from above is consistent, steady and unbiased; without favouritism. It is not influenced by personal opinions or external pressures. Everyone, and every effort we put our hand to, will receive the very best that we can give - every time; others will be able to count on us to be consistently upright, above board, and unmovable in the practice of doing what is right (1 Corinthians 15:58).

…without hypocrisy; the quality of being genuine, sincere, and without pretense. Wisdom from above is seen in genuine people who honour God with their lives; they are not ashamed of the gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16-17), they carefully walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:3-6), and prove themselves to be His disciples in every aspect of their lives. They do not carry a basket to cover up their light when they are around certain people (Matthew 5:14-16), but will remain true to God and His way and happily and consistently work as though they are working for Him (Colossians 3:23).

We also learned that Jesus is our perfect example of wisdom that is from above; He had it, and proved it through unwavering use throughout His life. If you want to know more of what this wisdom means and how to apply it, you need only look to Him and His Father, our Lord and Creator – they have provided all we need to know, they have given us both example and instruction, and we have access to more wisdom that is from above simply by asking God in faith!

“For the LORD gives wisdom, from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” (Proverbs 2:6 NKJV)

    Now with these facets of proper wisdom refreshed in your mind, I would like to bring a few verses back to your attention. Please consider all that you have learned about wisdom as you read and meditate on these passages:

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.” (Psalm 111:10 NKJV)

“If you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding…. If you seek for [wisdom] as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly...” (Proverbs 2:1-7 NKJV)

“When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you, to deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perverse things, from those who leave the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness…” (Proverbs 2:10-13 NKJV)

“Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding; for her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare to her. Length of days is in her right hand, in her left are riches and honour. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.” (Proverbs 3:13-18 NKJV)

“…Keep sound wisdom and discretion; so they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck. Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet… For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.” (Proverbs 3:21-24, 26 NKJV)  

“The wise will inherit glory…” (Proverbs 3:35 NKJV)

“Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake [wisdom], and she will preserve you; love her, and she will keep you. Wisdom is the principal things; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. Exalt her, and she will promote you; she will bring you honour, when you embrace her. She will place on your head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory she will deliver to you.” (Proverbs 4:5-9 NKJV)

“I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hindered, and when you run, you will not stumble. Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go; keep her, for she is your life.” (Proverbs 4:11-13 NKJV)

    Ask God for wisdom – He is ready and willing to give it to you liberally! Let’s ask for it, and receive it with a heart fully determined to apply it, as we follow Jesus’ example each day in both deed and in truth! As you have seen from the passages we read this week, it is worth our every effort and our every sacrifice to obtain it and retain it!

Are you ready to flourish in wisdom that is from above?

You can do it! So can I!! 

Wisdom that is From Above – A Summary

“But wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17 NKJV)

Consider this:

“Wisdom that is from above is first pure…” – Jesus is first pure:

• Jesus is God (John 1:1, 14) and God is pure (Proverbs 30:5, 1 John 3:3)
• Jesus was born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:22-23, Luke 1:30-35)
• Jesus’ purpose was pure (Matthew 1:21, Luke 2:49, John 6:38, Hebrews 10:9)
• Jesus lived a life of purity (Hebrews 7:26, Hebrews 4:14-15)

“…then peaceable…” – Jesus is peaceable:

• Jesus came to bring peace between God and man (Ephesians 2:11-13, Colossians 1:20-21)
• Jesus brings peace between man and man (Galatians 3:26-28, Ephesians 2:14-18) All who can hear the gospel, can obey the gospel – no matter gender, social status, income, or ethnicity – and become members of one body, the body of Christ, which is the church (Ephesians 1:22-23).

“ …gentle…” - Jesus is gentle:

• Jesus was gentle (ex: when helping people, Luke 8:43-48, and when He was being hurt, 1 Peter 2:21-23 and Isaiah 53:7)
• Jesus’ way is gentle (ex: Matthew 11:28-29) Remembering that ‘gentle’ means moderate, mild, and doing what is appropriate, read and consider Jesus’ offer of help.
• Jesus’ teaching methods were gentle (ex: John 8:2-12, Luke 22:54-62 and John 21:15-19)
• Jesus remains gentle (Hebrews 4:14-16, 1 Timothy 2:5, 1 John 2:1) He sympathizes with our weaknesses and He is our Mediator and Advocate.

“…willing to yield…” - Jesus was willing to yield:

• Jesus was ready and willing to yield to His Father’s will (Hebrews 10:7, John 5:30; 6:38, Matthew 26:39, Philippians 2:8, John 17:4)

“…full of mercy and good fruit…” – Jesus was full of mercy and good fruit:

• Jesus was full of mercy and showed compassion on individuals (ex: Luke 7:11-17, Matthew 8:14, John 11:17-44), on multitudes (ex: Matthew 9:35-38, 14:13-21, 15:32-39), and on the whole world – all who would exist in the world’s timeline (John 17:20-26, Hebrews 9:11-15; 23-28, 10:1-39, 12:1-2).
• Jesus was full of good fruit (He showed us how to “walk in the Spirit”, Galatians 5:16-25): love (John 15:12-13, 1 John 3:16), joy (John 15:9-11, Hebrews 12:2), peace (John 14:27, 16:33, “Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6-7), longsuffering (ex: Matthew 8:18-20; 23-27, 23:37, 26:1-27:56), kindness (Luke 7:11-17, 18:15-17), goodness (His entire character and purpose were good, see Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and consider Psalm 34:8), faithfulness (John 17:1-5, 12), gentleness (Matthew 19:13-15, Luke 18:15-17, Mark 5:21-43), and self-control (Matthew 21:12-16, Luke 9:51-56, 22:41-42, 23:1-25).

“…without partiality and without hypocrisy.” – Jesus was without partiality and without hypocrisy:

• Jesus was without partiality (ex: Matthew 9:10-13, Luke 19:1-10, John 4:1-26, 1 John 2:1-2, consider Isaiah 55:1-3)
• Jesus was without hypocrisy (John 5:16-47, 10:1-18, John 14:1-6, 1 John 2:3-6, God the Father declared Jesus as His Son, Matthew 3:17/Matthew 17:1-8/Romans 1:1-4, Jesus fulfilled all that was spoken of Him in the Law and the Prophets, Luke 24:44-49, and He now sits at the right hand of God, Acts 2:14-39)

“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in Him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” (1 John 2:3-6 NKJV)

    Jesus is our perfect example of wisdom that is from above; He had it, and proved it through unwavering use throughout His life. If you want to know more of what this wisdom means and how to apply it, you need only look to Him: read the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), and then read Acts through Jude, and the book of Revelation, too! “These things were written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that you believing you may life in His name.” (John 21:31)

    In following in Jesus’ footsteps and walking as He walked we, too, will become pure (having washed away our sins in baptism, Acts 22:16, we work to overcome obstacles, and repent and confess our sin each time we stumble, Acts 8:14-24, 1 John 1:7-10) and we will walk in purity (Matthew 5:8, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 24:3-5). In appreciation of the peace Jesus’ sacrifice brought about, we will do our best, in humble obedience, to maintain the peace established between ourselves and God (1 John 1:1-9, Acts 26:20), and to bring peace to the situations we find ourselves in (1 Timothy 2:1-4, Romans 12:18, James 3:18, Matthew 5:9). Following Jesus’ example of gentleness we need to correct with gentleness (2 Timothy 2:24-26) and be patient and longsuffering with others (Galatians 6:1-2). Are we willing to trust the Father as Jesus did? To willingly yield to God’s word and will when we hear it (1 Thessalonians 2:13, Matthew 7:21-23, 1 John 5:2-3, don’t be like those in Romans 10:2-3)? Let’s value the mercy we receive daily from God through Jesus and develop a heart that is full of mercy for others (Matthew 10:42; 18:21-35, Luke 10:25-37) and let’s work toward flourishing with fruit, proving that our nutrients come from the good Source (John 15:1-8, Matthew 7:15-20; 12; 12:35-37). And let’s be sure that we are without partiality (partiality being cliques within congregations/favouring certain members over others, being kind or friendly on only a part-time basis, picking and choosing who we shine our light around/who we share the gospel with, etc.), and let’s be certain that we are without hypocrisy because we represent God and His way to the world (Romans 12:1-2), and we represent His church to the community we live in (Revelation 3:14-19, 1 Corinthians 6:1-11). We are members of one another (Ephesians 4:14-32); so as much as depends on us, let’s not let others down nor let opportunities pass where another soul may be helped through our words or example (Matthew 5:13-16, 1 Peter 3:15-17, Daniel 12:3).

    Are you ready to walk just as Jesus walked and flourish in wisdom that is from above?

You can do it! So can I!! 

Wisdom From Above is… Without Hypocrisy

    Hypocrisy is acting under a feigned part; it is deceit, being fake, and pretending. We can find further details when we look to the Bible:

A hypocrite…

…is a vile person and is no benefit to others (Isaiah 32:6)

…could not come before God (Job 13:16)

…will be joyful but for a moment; he will perish forever like his refuse (Job 20:4-7)  

…is without hope if God takes away his life (Job 27:8)

…in their heart will store up wrath, and their life ends among the perverted persons (Job 36:13-14)

…will destroy their neighbour with their mouth (Proverbs 11:9)

…will condemn others for their sins, but refuse to see their own (Matthew 7:3-5)

…will sound a trumpet, stand in the streets, and they disfigure their faces so they can be seen by men to be “righteous” (Matthew 6:2, 5, 16). Their hearts seek after the temporary glory that comes from men.

…say but do not do (Matthew 15:7-8)

…appear to honour God, but their minds are focused on earthly (carnal, selfish) things (Matthew 15:7-8, Mark 7:6)

…will not/cannot discern spiritual things; they are too focused on self and worldly wisdom (Matthew 16:3, Luke 12:56)

…appear righteous to draw men to them – even seeking men to “convert” them, but corrupt those who are taught by them (Matthew 23:13-14)

…will be delivered to the place of weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 24:51)

…is in league with those who practice malice, deceit, envy, and evil speaking, all of which keep you from desiring the pure milk of the word (1 Peter 2:1-3)

    We are to be without hypocrisy.

    The term “without hypocrisy” comes from a single Greek word: anupokritos (Strong’s G#505) it is the quality of being genuine, sincere, and without pretense.

    Our love is to be without hypocrisy (Romans 12:9, 2 Corinthians 6:6, 1 Peter 1:22)

    Our faith is to be without hypocrisy (1 Timothy 1:5, 2 Timothy 1:5)

    Consider the church in Laodicea that Jesus described in Revelation 3:15-16. He said that they were “lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot” (v16) – if they had been hot, they would have been zealous for God and His way, if they were cold they would have walked away completely, but, instead, they were proclaiming to be followers of Christ and not living as followers of Christ. We cannot be one way in the church building and another in our homes/communities/work. In behaving this way we not only bar ourselves from God and His blessings/promises, but we also keep others from finding and following Him. A hypocritical example belittles God, His word, and the church; it will further weaken weak brethren and leave the lost to their hopeless groping.

    When we seek wisdom that is from above, we will learn to remove any masks we have put on. We will do our best to be sincere and genuine to all as we humbly serve God and help others. We will be consistent in our conduct, not behaving one way with some people and another way with others. If your family, friends, co-workers, companions in your hobbies/leagues, and your brethren were all asked to describe you would they all be in complete agreement or would they each begin describing contradictory versions of you that the others were not aware of?

    Wisdom from above is without hypocrisy. It is exhibited by genuine people who honour God with their lives. People who are not ashamed of the gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16-17) who carefully walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:3-6), proving themselves to be His disciples in every aspect of their lives. They do not carry a basket to cover up their light when they are around certain people (Matthew 5:14-16), but will remain true to God and His way; they will humbly help their neighbour, and happily work as though they are doing it for God (Colossians 3:23).

    A life flourishing in wisdom that is from above – a life without hypocrisy – is what we all need to be striving for – are you ready to begin?

You can do it! So can I!!

Wisdom From Above is… Without Partiality

“But wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality…” (James 3:17 NKJV)

Without partiality means unwavering, undivided, unambiguous. It is being consistent, steady and unbiased; without favouritism. It is not influenced by personal opinions or external pressures.

God shows no partiality: Matthew 5:45, Acts 10:34-35, Romans 2:9-11, Ephesians 6:9, and Colossians 3:23-25

Note: Everyone (who reaches the age of understanding) has their lifetime to seek God and find Him (Acts 17:26-27); their gender, ethnicity, employment status, education, and monetary income do not matter – all can seek Him and find Him when they search for Him with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13). No one will be barred from receiving His blessings when they do His commandments (Revelation 22:14).

    Earthly wisdom gives birth to envy and self-seeking – both of these will corrupt our hearts and make us partial. They lead us to do whatever it takes, including pushing down and pilfering others to promote and benefit ourselves; they taint our thinking and ability to reason and do good; they will convince us to see bribes as simply a means to an end – “You can have your cake and eat it too” – and they will keep our heads turned away from truth and justice.

“You shall not pervert justice; you shall not show partiality, nor take a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.” (Deuteronomy 16:19 NKJV)

    Envy and self-seeking will also keep our eye trained on what it does not/cannot have, it will sap our energies for the job at hand, leading us to be lacklustre and complaining in what we have to do because we’re saving our zeal for the job we want to do.  This earthly wisdom will also lead us to be false to people in our conduct as we mentally place them in a hierarchy of how they may benefit us: those who can give us something at the top; the rest of the list being only rungs in “the ladder of success” that we will readily step on to advance ourselves. With this carnal wisdom we will endure conversations with an insignificant person, but only until someone more interesting, more to our liking, comes along. We will become a pattern of rudely dropped conversations and become known as one who only gives half an ear to what is being said – because our attention is always on other people and other things. We will be so self-consumed there will be no effort made on our part to point people toward God and His word because we’ve convinced ourselves that ‘that’s for other people, not us. Isn’t the preacher paid to do that? We’ve got better things to do.’ These things ought not to be so.       

“If you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors.” (James 2:9 NKJV)

    Those without partiality are exhibiting wisdom that is from above. They will hear a matter and seek God’s guidance (asking for wisdom, James 1:5, using His word to discern good from evil, Hebrews 4:15); in doing this, they will not be afraid of the answer – or to give the answer – because it will be of God (Deuteronomy 1:17, 1 Corinthians 2:1-5). They will not look at external appearances, nor will they look at earthly measures or standards, they will see souls, and love each one of them as God loves them. Simply put, everyone they interact with and every effort they put their hand to will receive the very best that they can give - every time.

• We must not show partiality in judgment (Proverbs 18:13, 24:23-25, 28:21)
• We must not show partiality in our work ethic (Colossians 3:23, Titus 2:9-10, Ephesians 6:5-8, Philippians 2:14-16)
• We must not show partiality in who we greet or show kindness toward (Matthew 5:44-48, James 2:1-9, God already loves every person you may meet, show them the truth of that statement!)
• We must not show partiality in who we share the good news – the gospel – with (Luke 8:5-8, we are to be seed sowers not soil inspectors)  

    Showing favouritism and allowing our judgments to be biased – ex: changing our minds between one situation and the next because of the people involved – is a clear indication that our wisdom is earthly. Treating one job as though it’s beneath us, constantly complaining about it, and dragging our feet about accomplishing it, yet having the ability to give our whole heart to another effort because it is “more to our liking,” is another clear indication. Here are two more: Being friendly to only those who treat us well (or can benefit us), and keeping our bushel handy so we can cover up our light anytime we are around those we presume to be uninterested/unreceptive.

    God is consistent (Malachi 3:6a, Hebrews 13:8), His word is unchanging (Psalm 119:89, 1 Peter 1:23-25); let Him be your model and let His word be your guide so that you, too, can be without partiality!

You can do it! So can I!!

Wisdom From Above is… Willing to Yield

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield…” (James 3:17 NKJV)

    Willing to yield means to be ready to obey, willing to yield your former thoughts and beliefs for the truth that is set before you. Willing to yield your pride, your notions; your own self (Romans 12:1-2), to obey the true and proper way.

    In using wisdom from above you will be able to discern both good and evil (Hebrews 5:14); you will abhor what is evil and cling to what is good (Romans 12:9).

Examples of people who were willing to yield:

Jesus (Matthew 26:39, 42, Mark 14:36, 39, Luke 22:42) “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Your will be done.” (Luke 22:42) “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work that You have given Me to do.” (John 17:4)

3000+ men and women (Acts 2) “Now when they heard this, they were cut to their heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized for the remission of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. …Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day three thousand souls were added to them. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.” (37-38, 41, 47b)

Saul of Tarsus/Paul (Acts 9:1-22, 22:4-21, 26:4-20) Saul lived as a Pharisee (the strictest sect of the Jewish religion, Acts 26:3-5) and thought that he must do many things against the name of Jesus of Nazareth (Acts 26:9), including shutting up many of the saints in prison (being given authority to do so by the chief priests), casting his vote against them when their very lives hung in the balance; he punished them and forced them to deny Jesus, and even tracked them down in foreign cities to persecute them (Acts 26:10-11). While Saul was in pursuit of Christians in Damascus, Jesus appeared to Saul and spoke to Him, and he “was not disobedient to the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19) – he was willing to yield – and went to Damascus, waited for Ananias to come and put his hands on him (Acts 9:11-12, 17-18), and when that happened “he arose and was baptized” (Acts 9:18).  

Philippian Jailor (Acts 16:25-34) A Roman “keeper of the prison” seeing the situation he awoke to, heard Paul’s words when he called to him through the darkness from the inner prison: “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.” Realizing that there must be something more, something different about Paul and Silas, he asked for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before them, then he brought them out of the inner prison and asked them, “Sirs, what I do to be saved?” They “spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.” The Philippian jailor, a Roman citizen and employee of the state, was willing to yield and ready to obey the word of the Lord, and being fully convinced, that same hour of the night, he did works befitting repentance when he “washed their stripes,” (v33, Acts 26:20) and immediately he and all his family were baptized. And “[the jailor] rejoiced having believed in God with all his household.” (v34).

Apollos (Acts 18:24-28) Apollos was “an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures” He had been taught the way of the Lord, and spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, but he knew only the baptism of John (John had prepared the people for Jesus, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, Luke 3:1-6).  When Aquila and Priscilla heard him speak boldly in the synagogue, “they took him aside and explained the way of God more accurately.”  Apollos was willing to yield to this more accurate knowledge and being fully convinced of it, he continued on to Achaia and “greatly helped those who had believed through grace (the Gentiles); for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly; showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ.”

Eunuch from Ethiopia (Acts 8:26-39), Cornelius (Acts 10), Lydia (Acts 16:11-15, 40), you, and me We all heard the same gospel message, and we all reached a point of understanding and conviction that we – in wisdom – were willing to yield. We were willing to submit to God and His way, and from that day forward we have pursued His righteousness (Matthew 6:33, 2 Timothy 2:22), and worked to remove bad habits, thoughts, and conduct, and replace them with good works (Ephesians 2:10, Titus 3:1, 8, 14), good thoughts (Philippians 4:8), and good conduct (1 Timothy 2:1-4, 4:12-13, Romans 12:1-2, 9-21, 1 Peter 3:1-4).

Examples of those who were not willing to yield:

Jesus’ own countrymen (Matthew 13:53-58) “Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is this not the carpenter’s son? ...so they were offended at Him.”

Young man with great possessions (Matthew 19:16-22, Mark 10:17-22) “But when he heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.”

Those who listened to Stephen’s sermon (Acts 6:8-7:60) “When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth… and they cast him out of the city and stoned him.”

Felix, the Governor (Acts 24:22-25) “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” (he never did)

    This is an area where we can clearly assess whether someone’s wisdom is earthly or if it is from above – when we observe their willingness to yield to God and His way:  Do they say they love God but hold to their own thoughts and notions, like those described in Romans 10:2-3? Do they, by their words and example, help you draw nearer to God and encourage you toward better service? Do they seek out and share man’s advice more than God’s instruction? Do they ignore or disregard certain commands and instructions because they don’t want to give up parts of their conduct/lifestyle?

    We can ascertain where our wisdom is sourced by asking ourselves these same questions: Do I hold to my own notions and expect God to be pleased? Do I, through my words and example, help others draw nearer to God and encourage them toward better service? Do I seek out and share man’s advice more than God’s instruction? Do I ignore or disregard certain commands and instructions in the Bible because I don’t want to give up parts of my conduct/lifestyle?

    You were willing to yield when you heard the gospel message and responded to it. You were willing to yield when you submitted to baptism for the remission of your sins and rose to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Every time you choose God over self you are showing yourself wise in your willingness to yield, in your willingness to present your body a living sacrifice, in your willingness to choose holiness and acceptability to God over selfish, carnal desires, and in your willingness to be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:1-2)! Keep going, keep growing; keep flourishing in wisdom from above by learning and obeying God’s word and by continuing to prove to yourself – and to others around you – that all of God’s will is good and acceptable and perfect!

You can do it! So can I!!     

   

Wisdom From Above is… Gentle

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle…” (James 3:17 NKJV)

gentle (Strong’s #G1933) ‘epieikes’ means appropriate, mild, patient, moderation

    This exact word is found in three places in the New Testament: James 3:17 (our main passage of study), Titus 3:1-2, and 1 Peter 2:18 (see below).

“Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.” (Titus 3:1-2 NKJV)

“Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also the harsh.” (1 Peter 2:18 NKJV)

    Another form of this word was used by Paul in his second letter to the Corinthian brethren: “Now, I, Paul, myself am pleading with you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ – who in presence am lowly among you, but being absent am bold toward you.” (2 Corinthians 10:1) Here it is ‘epieikeia’ (Strong’s #G1932) which means suitableness, fairness/impartiality, mildness, mercifulness.

    This sort of gentleness is clearly seen in James 1:5, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” God, who is all wise (‘omniscient’), does not belittle or rebuke those who lack wisdom when they ask Him for it; He happily and generously provides it so that they can develop and flourish in it. Read and consider Hebrews 4:16 as well.

    Those who cling to earthly wisdom want to be the smartest in the room. They will seek out the one they deem weakest (in intelligence) when they want a small ego boost, and they will openly target the one considered the smartest amongst the group when they desire a battle for the title. They will criticize, mock, and humiliate to gain advantage, spouting worldly arguments and well-practised conundrums so as to stump and cause hesitation in the other, leaving opportunity for further mocking and ridicule.  

    But those with wisdom from above will assess a situation and respond to it appropriately. When they discover another’s lower level of knowledge and understanding, they will help to raise that level with kindness and patience, with mildness and moderation; taking the time needed, step-by-step, to guide them (think on Ephesians 4:29). And when they find someone with better understanding than themselves they will humbly listen and discern (Hebrews 5:14); which is the very thing we will study next week, if the Lord wills.  

    Simply put, earthly wisdom pushes down others to lift up self, but wisdom that is from above puts self aside to lift up others.

    Take a careful look at how you share your wisdom: Do you get a jolt of satisfaction when you can ‘tsk’ or cluck your tongue at someone’s ignorance, and openly correct them in a patronizing way? Or do you find fulfillment in being able to quietly and gently help another along, taking whatever time and study is needed to help them gain more understanding?

    Think of God’s patience and gentleness with you. There are no lightning bolts hitting you whenever you blunder or fall short; God is gentle – “the Father of mercies” (2 Corinthians 1:3) – and He is patient and “longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish…” (2 Peter 3:9). When God shares His wisdom with us liberally and without reproach, let us appreciate that enough to do the same for others!

You can do it! So can I!!

Wisdom From Above is… Peaceable

“But wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable…” (James 3:17a, NKJV)

    As we continue in our study to better understand the “wisdom that is from above,” let’s now dig into the term peaceable.

    Peaceable means loving peace, harmony, tranquility. Its use in the New Testament often refers to the character or behaviour that promotes peace and unity among people, bringing peace to a situation instead of additional conflict; to be at peace and a willingness to bring about peace.

Consider these uses in the New Testament:

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour who desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4 NKJV)

    Peaceable, in this passage, means to keep one’s seat, to be still (undisturbed and undisturbing). Now, we all know that the world’s wisdom would have us rail against governments and those in authority, but God’s wisdom teaches us to bow our heads and humbly pray to make intercession for all people in these positions. Take time to meditate on 1 Timothy 2:1-4, and while you’re thinking on it, read Psalm 4:4-5 and 1 Peter 2:20-24. We must always remember to trust God and continue to do what is good and acceptable in His sight.

“If you endure chastening, God deals with you as sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? …Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields that peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:7, 9-11 NKJV)

    Peaceable, in this passage means pacific (peaceful in character and intent) and salutary (beneficial, producing good effects, health-giving). Again, the world with its carnal wisdom will be quick to counsel you toward railing and rebelling against correction and instruction – “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can and can’t do!” – but when we submit to wisdom from above, and allow ourselves to be trained by it, we will develop the peace-bringing fruit of righteousness. We will come to know peace and desire to be at peace with God, willingly making the necessary changes to obey His commands and instructions, so that we can continue in His righteousness (1 John 3:7, Matthew 6:33). Read and think on Hebrews 12:7-11 as well as James 3:18. God wants us to live properly, peaceably, and be beneficial to others.

“If it is possible, as much as depends of you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18 NKJV)

    Peaceably, in this passage, means to be pacificatory (wanting to bring peace) and conciliatory (wanting to pacify, soothe, calmly resolve). The world’s wisdom says, do whatever it takes to get what you want: fight, argue, backbite, slander, etc. But wisdom from above instructs you to give your anxieties to God (Philippians 4:6-8), run to Him for help in times of need (Hebrews 4:16), pray to Him for more wisdom (James 1:5-6), love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you (Matthew 5:44-48), and train your mind to think on good things (Philippians 4:8-9). Think on Romans 12:18-21 and then read and consider Psalm 73, as well as Ephesians 4:29-31 and Matthew 18:21-35.   

    The wisdom that is from above will help us to be at peace in conflict and, if at all possible, to bring peace to the situation so that the conflict is resolved. Take time to think on Hebrews 12:14. God wants us to live peaceably in righteousness; are you ready to pray to Him in wisdom, submit to Him in wisdom, and live for Him in wisdom?  

You can do it! So can I!!

Wisdom From Above Is First Pure

    This week, let’s dig into James 3:17 and discover what “pure” means when we read, “…wisdom that is from above is first pure”.

pure – hagnos (Strong’s Greek #53) – pure to the very core, holy, uncontaminated and undefiled by sin

    God is pure (1 John 3:3), therefore all His words and commandments are pure (Psalm 12:6, 19:8) – very pure (Psalm 119:140) – every single one (Proverbs 30:5-6).

    Wisdom from above, at its very Source, is pure. Its path is pure; it will not lead us astray or away from God. God’s pure words/commands will enlighten us (Psalm 19:8), chasten us (Hebrews 12:3-11), warn us, and correct us (2 Timothy 3:16-17); they will purify us to the very core when we, in wisdom, hear His words, obey His commands, heed His warnings, and make the necessary corrections.

    Wisdom from above will lead us to have pure hearts (Matthew 5:8, 1 John 3:1-3), and from that purified source (Matthew 12:35-37; 15:18) we will be able to draw words that are pleasant (Proverbs 15:26, Colossians 4:5-6).

    Why do we need wisdom from above?

    Look at all the parts of our life that are to be pure:

• Our hearts (1 Timothy 1:5, 2 Timothy 2:22, 1 Peter 1:22, Proverbs 22:11)
• Our consciences (2 Timothy 1:3, qualification for deacons: 1 Timothy 3:9)
• Our minds (2 Peter 3:1)
• Our souls (1 Peter 1:22)
• Our religion (James 1:27)

    We all need wisdom that is from above!

    Asking for (James 1:5-6) and submitting to God’s wisdom that is first pure will purify us. Think about this for a moment:

    God’s word is pure. Psalm 12:6 says that His words are like silver that has been purified in a furnace seven times - so they would absolutely shine, wouldn’t they?

    And Jesus tells us that a wise man is he who hears His words and does them (Matthew 7:24-25, and we know that Jesus only spoke God’s words, John 17:8).

    Now, consider that in Daniel 12:3 it says that “those who are wise” (those who hear and obey God's word) “shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.”

    These verses make Matthew 5:14-16 so potent - we are the light of the world - we help light the way, show people the path (as the daytime sky gives light for clear sight) - and we, when we wisely hear and obey God's words, will become steady guides (1 Timothy 4:12-13, 1 John 2:3-6) - akin to stars in the sky - to guide people to the truth, in the truth, all the way home! And when they see the good we accomplish - sharing God’s love and the good news with them - they will glorify our Father in heaven!

    When we seek wisdom from its very Source, God will give it to us liberally and without rebuke. Let’s submit to it, let it transform us and purify us so we can shine as lights in the world, proving that His will is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:1-2)!!

    God wants to give you wisdom! Desire the wisdom that comes only from Him – it is the only wisdom worth having, it is the only wisdom that will lead you home to Him; it is the only wisdom that will help you help others to find the narrow gate and follow the difficult way (Matthew 7:13-14)! Are you ready to shine in pure wisdom from above?  

You can do it! So can I!!

Earthly Wisdom vs Wisdom From Above

    Wisdom often tops the list of human virtues (Proverbs 12:8). In the past, the aged were sought after and revered for the wisdom amassed over their lifetime, and the young were encouraged to work hard so they could gain it themselves. Today, it seems that anyone – of any age - with a recording device and online access can proclaim themselves wise and thousands, if not millions, of people consume their content every day. Money talks, athleticism talks, celebrity talks, popularity talks, and people readily listen. But is it wise?

Consider these passages:

“Great men are not always wise, nor do the aged always understand justice.” (Job 32:9 NKJV)

“Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” (Proverbs 26:12 NKJV)

“The rich man is right in his own eyes, but the poor who has understanding searches him out.” (Proverbs 28:11 NKJV)

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!” (Isaiah 5:20-21 NKJV)

“Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.” (Proverbs 3:7-8 NKJV)

“Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their own craftiness”, and again, “The LORD knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” Therefore let no one boast in man…” (1 Corinthians 3:18-21a NKJV)

    James, in his epistle, teaches us how to tell the difference between earthly wisdom and wisdom that is from above.

Earthly wisdom (James 3:14-16):

• If bitter envy and self-seeking is its source (this is weakness not wisdom, consider 1 Corinthians 3:1-3)
• It is a lie to puff yourself up and call this behaviour wise (consider Romans 1:18-32)
• It does not come from above
• It is earthly (of the earth, of man’s making and prone to error and change, Matthew 7:21-23; 15:9, Romans 10:2-3)
• It is sensual (governed by passions and evil desires, consider Ephesians 4:17-24, 1 John 2:15)
• It is demonic (under the sway of the devil, John 8:44, 1 John 5:19)
• Where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing is there (nothing good can come from a heart tainted by these things)  

Wisdom that is from above (James 3:13, 17):

• Is first pure (uncontaminated)
• Then peaceable (peaceful in character and intent, promoting peace)
• Gentle (equitable, just, compassionate)
• Willing to yield (wholly convinced and ready to trust and obey commands of God)
• Full of mercy and good fruits (merciful toward others, compassion that leads to charitable deeds, good conduct that shows one's works are done in the meekness of wisdom)
• Without partiality (causing no doubt or uncertainty)
• Without hypocrisy (sincere and free from hidden agenda)

    We can use these descriptions to clearly examine the fruit of the people we consider wise – including ourselves. Let’s look at this information with honest hearts, and if the Lord wills, we’ll use the remainder of our study to dig into each part of heavenly wisdom, so we can better understand it and comprehend its great worth.   

“The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. The law of his God is in his heart, none of his steps shall slide.” (Psalm 37:30-31 NKJV)

    The LORD gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 2:6). Do not content yourself with your own form of wisdom (Proverbs 3:5) or with men’s wisdom; there is nothing beneficial there (Psalm 134:3-4, Jeremiah 17:5-6). Wisdom from God will be life to your soul and grace to your neck (Proverbs 3:21)! Let’s determine to seek wisdom from its very Source!!

You can do it! So can I!!   

A New Year, A New Month, A New Study: Flourishing in Wisdom

    I did not receive any suggestions for topics/Bible books/questions* to study in this new year, so I came up with a couple of my own; the first one being a topic I have long been interested in and one that I think will be beneficial for us to explore together: wisdom.

 *Note: If you have any topics/ Bible books/questions you would like to study at any point, please email me at any time throughout the year.

“Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding, for her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold.” (Proverbs 3:13-14 NKJV)

    Wisdom is attainable, all we have to do is ask of God (James 1:5), who gives to all liberally and without reproach - He will not scold or punish you, He is glad that you seek it and ask Him for it -  God knows what we have need of (Matthew 6:8), and He wants us to trust Him, seek His provision, and make our requests known to Him (Matthew 7:7-11, Philippians 4:6-7). I believe that is why the psalmist states that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Psalm 111:10); we need to seek Him (Acts 17:26-27), we need to understand who He is and who we are before Him, and then we will know that His wisdom is the only wisdom worth seeking (Proverbs 2:1-6).  

    To prepare our minds for this study, I compiled two lists: Who Will Obtain Wisdom and The Benefits of Proper Wisdom (proper = wisdom that is from above, James 3:17). Please take the time to look at them and look up each of the Bible references.

Who Will Obtain Wisdom:

• The simple who hear/obey the testimony of the LORD (Psalm 19:7)
• The righteous (Psalm 36:39-31)
• Those who learn to number their days (understand the frailty/shortness of life in comparison to eternity, Psalm 90:12)
• Those who fear the LORD and do His commandments (Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 15:33)
• Those who seek it and search for it as for hidden treasures (Proverbs 2:1-4)
• The upright (Proverbs 2:7-9)
• The humble (Proverbs 11:2)
• The one who walks with wise men (Proverbs 13:20)
• Those who have understanding (Proverbs 17:24)
• Those who love their souls (Proverbs 19:8)
• Those who listen to counsel and receive instruction (Proverbs 19:20)
• Those who are properly disciplined and rebuked (Proverbs 29:15)
• It is given by God to those who are good in His sight (Ecclesiastes 2:26), and to the wise and understanding (Daniel 2:20-21, Romans 11:33)
• Those who learn from the Holy Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:15)
• Those who ask God for it in faith, without doubting (James 1:5-8)

Benefits of Proper Wisdom:

• The law of God is in your heart, and none of your steps will slide (Psalm 36:30-31)
• You will gain a good understanding (Psalm 111:10)
• You will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:1-6)
• Discretion will preserve you, understanding will keep you, to deliver you from the way of evil (Proverbs 2:10-12)
• Happiness (blessedness, inner joy/contentment from living in accord to God's will), when you find wisdom and retain it (Proverbs 3:13, 18)
• It will help you walk in the way of goodness, and keep to the paths of righteousness (Proverbs 2:20)
• Its proceeds are better than the profits of silver and its gain is better than fine gold. More precious than rubies; all that you desire cannot compare to it (Proverbs 3:13-15)
• Length of days, and riches and honour (Proverbs 3:16)
• Ways of pleasantness and paths of peace (Proverbs 3:17)
• It is a tree of life to those who take hold of it (Proverbs 3:18)
• Keeping sound wisdom and discretion will be life to your soul and grace to your neck (Proverbs 3:21-22)
• You will walk in safety in your way, and your foot will not stumble (Proverbs 3:23)
• When you lie down you will not be afraid and your sleep will be sweet. You will not be afraid of trouble from the wicked because the LORD is your confidence; He will keep your foot from being caught (Proverbs 3:24-26)
• You will inherit glory (Proverbs 3:35)
• Wisdom will preserve you, keep you, promote you, bring you honour, place an ornament of grace on your head, and deliver you a crown of glory (Proverbs 4:5-9)
• When you walk you will not be hindered, when you run you will not stumble (Proverbs 4:10-12)
• You can preserve discretion and keep knowledge (Proverbs 5:1-2)
• If you are wise, you will be still wiser (Proverbs 9:9)
• You will store up knowledge (Proverbs 10:14)
• You will be commended for it (Proverbs 12:8)
• The way of life winds upwards, that you may turn away from hell below (Proverbs 15:24)
• It is better to get than gold (Proverbs 16:16)
• You will be called prudent (Proverbs 16:21)
• You will find good (Proverbs 19:8)
• A house is built through wisdom, it is established, and its rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches (Proverbs 24:3)
• Knowledge and wisdom will be like honey and honeycomb to your soul; if you have found it there is prospect and your hope will not be out off (Proverbs 24:13-14)
• Wisdom excels folly (Ecclesiastes 2:13)
• Wisdom strengthens the wise more than ten rulers of a city (Ecclesiastes 7:19)
• Wisdom makes your face shine (Ecclesiates 8:1); you will shine like the brightness of the firmament (Daniel 12:3)
• Wisdom is better than strength and better than weapons of war (Ecclesiastes 9:13-18)
• Wisdom brings success (Ecclesiastes 10:10)
• Your words are gracious (Ecclesiastes 10:12, Colossians 4:5-6)
• Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, and the strength of your salvation (Isaiah 33:6)
• The word of Christ dwells in you richly, and prepared you for teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs (Ephesians 3:16)
• Salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15)
• You will receive liberal amounts without reproach from God (James 1:5)
• Your good conduct will show that your work is done in the meekness of wisdom (James 3:13)

Note: If there are any additions that need to be made to the list, please add them in the comment section on my blog (link at bottom of post), or email me (address at bottom of post). I would very much like to dig into this topic together.

    Every day is a brand new opportunity to reassess ourselves and work toward gaining new depths of knowledge of God and His will. I hope you will see that you too can gain more wisdom, and that the benefits found in attaining it, and holding onto it, far outweigh any other earthly pursuit! Wisdom is the tree of life to those who take hold of it (Proverbs 3:18) – are you ready to take hold of it? Me too!

You can do it! So can I!!