Devotional - James 3:17-18 - Godly Wisdom

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” James 3:17-18

Looking up the word “pure” in the Funk & Wagnall’s Dictionary you find the definition” “1. Free from anything that weakens, impairs, or pollutes. 2. Free from adulteration; clear; clean. 3. Genuine, stainless; pure food; pure motives. 4. Free from moral defilement; innocent, chaste…” That is the wisdom from above that we should be seeking and we need to seek the Lord to purify our hearts, our souls, that we might impute the kind of wisdom towards each other that will be peaceable, gently, merciful, untainted by our own hurts and ill-feelings.

Are we looking for righteousness in our lives? It needs to be sown in peace, in ourselves and in others, then we will see the fruit of righteousness manifested in our lives and others. Are you at odds with a brother or sister in Christ? In mercy recognize that they are made from the dust of the earth just as we are and are therefore weak and need help - as do we! With love, extend forgiveness towards them aware that we ourselves need forgiveness. Do not esteem yourself higher than another but admit that you are not perfect and have a need of a Redeemer. Extend grace to others. In so doing you will reap a harvest of righteousness in your own lives.

Is it a small wonder that Solomon asked God for wisdom? Not my will Lord, but Your will shall it be done, by Your will and Your Spirit! Hallelujah! Praise God! We all need to walk in godly wisdom, peace and love so that we might glorify God and receive the fruit of righteousness in our lives and those around us. Be magnified, oh Lord!