James moves from the topic of speech (3:1-12) to a discussion of wisdom, which is defined as the application of knowledge. Wisdom is practical in nature because it will affect conduct and lifestyle choices, but James goes a little deeper distinguishing between the wisdom of man and the wisdom which comes from God. Man’s wisdom is based on limited and experiential knowledge while God’s is based on the truth. Paul also wrote much about this discussion in 1 Corinthians 1-2. James begins his writing with a question: “Who is wise and understanding among you?” (3:13) but he quickly answers his own inquiry by saying “let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” True wisdom is reflected in our actions. He goes on to write “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” (3:14-15). Those who chose to use their knowledge and wisdom for self-promotion and notoriety are really not wise at all. So what does wisdom from God look like? James writes that it is “pure [moral], then peaceable [makes peace], gentle [patient], willing to yield [submission to God], full of mercy [compassion] and good fruits [good works], without partiality [fair] and without hypocrisy [belief and actions are consistent]” (3:17). There are many in our world who herald themselves as wise, yet they are only interested in others knowing their name. God desires His followers to stay away from self-seeking and rather use wisdom to live well before others. True wisdom affects not only ourselves, but also those around us causing them to look to the God who has given them life. Jesus says it like this in His sermon to His followers (Matthew 5-7): “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Dear God, may the knowledge I receive from You be turned into wise living. Help others to see the way I live that they may also become worshippers of You.
