Devotion: James 3:13

James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

James starts out this verse with a question – who is wise and understanding among you? And it is that question that I echo this morning. Who do you know that is wise and understanding? What makes them stand out as such? List their characteristics, behaviors, etc. so that you can better understand what it means to be wise and understanding.

From your list, did you mention humility? True wisdom is inseparable from humility. It is strength under control. But it is also important to remember that genuine Biblical wisdom is not arrogance or intellectual pride. It refers to having practical skill, discernment, and knowledge in how to live. Wisdom is shown by actions rather than claims of knowledge. True wisdom is demonstrated not claimed.

James goes on to say that the fear of the Lord is the instruction for wisdom and that before honor comes humility (Proverbs 15:33). Before one can be wise, he must fear the Lord. (Remember, fear of the Lord is reverence and awe, not an emotional response of fright.) Before one can be worthy of honor, he must have humility. Humility requires you to be gentle and humble in behavior, not focusing on self-promotion or being self-centered.

We demonstrate true wisdom when others can see it in our actions and behaviors. We don’t do it for show or to prove anything. We aren’t there to perform or try to impress people. We behave normally, the same way we always do, and humility and wisdom are evident in our lives. People can see it in us.

Is your life demonstrating what you want it to be demonstrating? Or is it saying something you don’t approve of? Take some time today and pray about your life. Pray over the things you are doing, the normal behaviors. Ask the Spirit to open your eyes to the things you are or are not doing so that you can make changes accordingly.

Prayer: Lord, I come to you humbly and ask that You help me to change the areas of my life that need to shift allowing You to fill them more completely and fully. Amen 

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