But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. -- James 3:17
We make choices every day, moment by moment. And each of our choices individually - and even more so, cumulatively - affect both our lives and those of the people around us. These choices are based on our perspective... our judgement... our wisdom.
The Apostle Paul writes that we are to ...have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ (Philippians 2:5). He adds that as believers, ...we have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).
Therefore...
- our perspective - what we (choose to) see...
- our judgement - how we think and discern...
- our wisdom - the understanding upon which we base our perspective and judgement...
...Are to be shaped and molded by Christ himself.
As 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 is a description of Godly love, so James 3:17 is a description of Godly wisdom. (And isn't it odd how closely these resemble each other... and the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23?)
Godly wisdom is not the norm of our times. Look again at the description...
pure... peaceable... gentle... reasonable... merciful...
producing good fruit... impartial... sincere...
One need only to watch 15 minutes of television to see these qualities are in short supply; and worse, that they are not valued.
However, these qualities - this wisdom - is attractive and compelling. It is especially so to those who are hurting, to those who are worn-out by life, to those who understand their need for something deeper and more meaningful. To them, this wisdom, this love, this fruit is a promise of peace and rest. It is also a challenge to purpose and greater destiny.
Let our choices be truly based on the wisdom from above. It is promised to those who seek.
God, let my choices be yours.
For now...
D
