“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.”
James 3:17
What is wisdom, anyway?
Ever thought about that much?
See, real Wisdom is much more than a list of facts to recite when called upon. Rather, it is ‘the ability to contemplate and act using knowledge, experience, understanding, common sense and insight.’ (At least, it is according to Wikipedia.)
It is a lofty goal, the gaining of wisdom.
Wisdom is more the proper application of knowledge than knowledge itself. One envisions a mystic in a robe speaking in quiet riddles like Yoda, or a man with a beard longer than his arm meditating on a cliff somewhere.
But look at this list of requirements included in the writings of James – who incidentally was one of the brothers of Jesus. It’s sure a lot more than sitting passively on a cliff.
What a list.
I mean, this packs a punch.
Pure. Peace loving. Gentle – at all times, no less! Humble. Merciful. Backed by actions that match. Sincere and just.
Seriously.
I can’t even begin to imagine what a difference it would make if our courts, educational institutions, and relationships were governed by principles like these.
A word to the wise – it would be simply glorious!
But of course, that was the point of James describing true wisdom – to set a high bar, to declare what ought to be, to explain what God’s wisdom is like and encourage us to imitate it.
What a high calling.
What a steep challenge.
What a wonderful way to live.
But – I know myself. Gentle at all times? Fair and considerate and yielding to others and peace loving?
Yikes.
I think I’ve got a long way to go.
But I’d sure like to take a few steps in the right direction!
Wanna seek this kind of wisdom with me?
Father, how we long to be like You, to grow closer to these amazing and lofty ideals, to show the world this level of freedom and grace in how we treat others and respond to our circumstances. Grant is more and more if this peace-loving wisdom as we seek You! Amen
Growing in Grace 