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. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:17‭-‬18 NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/jas.3.17-18.NLT

There are two types of wisdom: earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom. These are opposites.  God wants us to possess wisdom that  comes from above. What exactly does that mean? Firstly, God’s wisdom is pure. It is not contaminated like earthly wisdom which takes a bit from here and a little from there. The pureness of God’s wisdom comes straight from the throne room of grace. Have you sought this pure wisdom to order your steps or are you seeking after the world’s wisdom?

Secondly, God’s wisdom is gentle at all times and actively loves peace.  What a reminder! God wants us to access his wisdom to promote peace not war and this wisdom is not one that is rough or cruel but gentle. When we obtain this wisdom we find rest for our souls given to us by Jesus who is gentle in heart. This is so different from earthly wisdom that promotes war, cruelty and violence.

Thirdly,  wisdom from above  is not pushy or self promoting but yields to others. Let us confess it is not easy to yield to others. It is easier to promote ourselves.  Earthly wisdom fills us with the desire to not yield to anyone  but to be self-centered.  Forgive us O Lord.

Heavenly wisdom, fourthly, is full of mercy not revenge and is the fruit of good deeds. We see it everyday where people acting in their earthly wisdom carry out revenge and evil deeds. How about us?Are we full or empty of mercy? Are we practicing mercy or holding vengeance in our hearts? Mercy must take hold of our entire  beings and be manifested in our every action. Once that happens, this will sow seeds of good deeds which will develop into well needed fruit.  So have we sown mercy seeds so that we can reap the wisdom fruit of good deeds?

Finally, heavenly wisdom and favouritism are opposites as the former treats everyone fairly. Are we fair in our dealings with others ? Additionally,  sincerity is heavenly wisdom’s hallmark. Can that be said about us?  We must confess that our lack of wisdom from above have caused us to be insincere and to sometimes play favourites. This can cause others to stumble and fall. Jesus have mercy on us.

Prayer:

Father forgive us for parading our  empty earthly wisdom for your heavenly absolutely amazing wisdom. Forgive, empty and purify us and fill us with your Holy Spirit and Heavenly Wisdom so that we can be your wisdom in the world.  In Jesus’ name we pray Amen.