Wisdom From Above

“But the 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

The third chapter of James weaves together two scriptural principles, giving us a standard by which we can discern the source of our “wisdom”. The passage ties together words and wisdom. The descriptive words in verse 17 likely do not fit into the list we would commonly use when identifying true wisdom. Generally, when we think of wisdom, words like pure, peaceable, and gentle don’t come to mind. The verse seems to suggest that we can discern whether the wisdom we see in ourselves is from above or from the earth and our carnal nature (vs. 15), by carefully studying; not only what we say, but how we say it.

It’s possible to be right in principle and wrong in delivery. This disconnect shows a lack of wisdom. Like the pastor who spends the majority of a eulogy referencing scriptures on hell when the person in the casket was not known to have a saving relationship with Christ. Hell may be a reality that needs to be spoken of… but it’s too late for the person in the casket, and it brings no comfort to those left with their grief.

Placing too much emphasis on knowledge through correct information can cause us to neglect true wisdom. Carefully read verse 17 again, and search your life for the purity, gentleness, mercy, and good fruits it speaks of. When the knowledge you carry is delivered rightly with these gifts, you can be assured you have received wisdom from above.

Heavenly Father, grant me the ability, by Your Holy Spirit, to walk in wisdom from above. I invite this wisdom into my life, that it may be seen not only in the things that I “know” but the fruit of the Spirit that is clearly seen in my life in choosing, when, where, and with whom I share what I know. Amen.