Two Kinds of Wisdom

James 2:18-3:18 There are two kinds of wisdom we can experience here on earth. We can experience the wisdom of this world or heavenly wisdom. Earlier in this letter James tells us that if any man lack wisdom, he should ask God, and God will grant him wisdom. The kind of wisdom God gives is described as follows: “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).

If we could daily walk in such wisdom, we would be great ambassadors for Christ. The world needs such wisdom, but most people in this world are bound by the wisdom from below. James tell us “But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there” (James 3:14-16).

Any time we get into strife, we are operating in the wisdom of this world, which is demonic. If we are jealous or confused, we also are experiencing the wisdom of this world. The fruit of worldly wisdom is always bad.

If we think ourselves to be wise, we can easily become fools the moment we get into strife. We are exhorted in God’s Word to cease from anger and strife and to seek peace and pursue it. God loves a peacemaker, and whenever we bring His peace into a strife-filled situation, we have pleased the Lord. Those who make peace always sow the fruit of righteousness in peace.

Lord, help me to operate in Your wisdom today and help me to be a peacemaker.

READ: Ezekiel 39:1-40:27; James 2:18-3:18; Psalm 118:1-18; Proverbs 28:2