9/19/21

Our scripture today is James 3:13-18.

“Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”

This passage reminds us that our attitude affects how we see the world and how the world sees us. James tells us that earthly wisdom is not wisdom at all but merely our selfish desires at work. If we accept a relationship with Christ, we are blessed with wisdom from above (v. 17) that enables us to know God’s will for us.

In order to do God’s will we must reject the ways of the world. This isn’t easy and Jesus taught that we would be challenged by those who seek only pleasure or power. The world will not give up easily.

However, we are promised that following Jesus is worth every effort we exert and every challenge we face. There will be obstacles we can only overcome through our faith in Him. Choosing Christ doesn’t guarantee an easy life, but it will bring us to eternal life.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom given to us that we may live ordered lives in a chaotic world. May we show others through our words and actions the joy of a life in You. Amen.

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