James 3:13-18
[13] Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. [14] But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. [15] This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. [16] For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. [17] But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. [18] And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Head: What do you think wisdom is?
Heart: Do you want wisdom? Why?
Hands: How will wisdom help you to honor God and serve others?
Do you want wisdom? The question that matters more is: "why do you want wisdom?" If we want wisdom for personal gain and advantage over other people, then that is meaningless in God's eyes. But the wisdom that God wants to give us is one that comes from a humble and selfless heart, seeking the glory of God and the good of others.
Today's passage shows us that it is not wise to call yourself wise. Rather, in humility, let your actions do the talking. No matter how wise we may be in the eyes of the world, selfish ambition and vanity works against godly wisdom in us.
Godly wisdom is not an ability of the mind, it's the state of the heart. It comes from the Holy Spirit's ongoing work in you to nurture a heart that mirrors Christ's heart. This then results in righteousness in your own heart and in the lives of those around us.
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Devotional Guide:
1) Pray for understanding in your mind, for trust in your heart, and for powerful obedience in your daily living.
2) Read the passage and mark anything that blesses you, challenges you, or raises a question.
3) Reflect on the passage. What's God saying about Himself? What's God saying about you?
4) Pray in response to what God puts on your heart through the Word.