Wisdom is the beginning of holy living. James says wisdom is reasonable, flexible, forgiving, peaceful and caring, shown in small acts of friendliness and kind words. It is humble, transparent, simple, gentle and gracious to the core (James 3:17).

Where can wisdom be found? It comes from God (1:5). “Wisdom,” wrote Charles Spurgeon, “is a beauty of life that can only be produced by God’s workmanship in us.”

It’s good to ask from time to time: “Am I growing in wisdom?” After all, life is always moving on. We’re either growing more loving and wise as the days go by, or we’re growing more selfish and grumpy. What are we growing into?

It’s never too late to begin growing in wisdom. God loves us with an intense affection that can deliver us from our selfishness if we give ourselves to Him. His love can make the most difficult person into a miracle of astonishing kindness. It may hurt a little and it may take a while, but God always seeks our transformation. When we ask, His wisdom will begin to change us so we can help others.

We have this promise: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to [you]” (1:5).

True wisdom begins and ends with God.

Author

David H. Roper

Topics

Our Daily Bread