In James 3:17-18, we are presented with a beautiful contrast between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom from above. The wisdom of the world is characterized by bitterness, envy, and self-ambition. It is a wisdom that leads to conflict, division, and destruction. In contrast, the wisdom from above is characterized by purity, peacefulness, gentleness, reasonableness, mercy, good fruits, impartiality, and sincerity. It is a wisdom that leads to harmony, unity, and construction. Purity The first characteristic of the wisdom from above is purity. This means that it is free from all that is earthly, natural, and demonic. It is a wisdom that is not tainted by sin or selfishness. Peacefulness The second characteristic of the wisdom from above is peacefulness. This means that it is wisdom that brings peace, both to the individual and to the world around them. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by conflict or strife. Gentleness The third characteristic of the wisdom from above is gentleness. This means that it is a wisdom that is soft, mild, and yielding. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by harshness or cruelty. Reasonableness The fourth characteristic of the wisdom from above is reasonableness. This means that it is a wisdom that is open to persuasion and conviction. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by stubbornness or dogmatism. Mercy The fifth characteristic of the wisdom from above is mercy. This means that it is a wisdom that is full of compassion and understanding. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by judgment or condemnation. Good Fruits The sixth characteristic of the wisdom from above is good fruits. This means that it is a wisdom that produces positive results in the lives of those who possess it. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by negativity or destruction. Impartiality The seventh characteristic of the wisdom from above is impartiality. This means that it is a wisdom that loves all people, regardless of their background or beliefs. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by prejudice or discrimination. Sincerity The eighth characteristic of the wisdom from above is sincerity. This means that it is a wisdom that is honest and genuine. It is a wisdom that is not characterized by hypocrisy or deceit. Sowing a Harvest of Righteousness James 3:18 tells us that a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. This means that when we live according to the wisdom from above, we are planting seeds of righteousness that will bear fruit in our lives and the lives of others. Reflection Take some time today to reflect on the wisdom from above. Ask yourself the following questions:
What does it mean to be pure?
How can I be more peaceful?
How can I be more gentle?
How can I be more open to reason?
How can I be more merciful?
How can I produce good fruits in my life?
How can I be more impartial?
How can I be more sincere?
As we strive to live according to the wisdom from above, we will experience greater peace, harmony, and joy in our lives. We will also be a force for good in the world, making a positive impact on the lives of others.
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