September 16, 2025
James 3:17
"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."
Do you ever notice how wisdom feels like it’s everywhere these days? Everyone’s got advice, daily conversations, podcasts, YouTube, TikTok, books, you name it. There is always someone ready to tell you how to live, how to lead, how to succeed.
But let’s be honest: not all “wisdom” is created equal.
James actually breaks it down for us really simply. He says there are two kinds of wisdom.
There’s earthly wisdom, the kind that’s fueled by jealousy, selfish ambition, and ends up just stirring up mess and confusion.
And then there’s heavenly wisdom, the kind that shows itself in purity, peace, humility, and sincerity.
We see notable difference in these two "wisdoms". It’s not just about the words, it’s about the heart behind them. Earthly wisdom might sound slick and clever, but at its core it’s usually about pride or self-promotion. Heavenly wisdom? It might not always match the way our culture thinks, but it’s grounded in love, truth, and the Spirit of God.
Our world says, “Make sure you’re right.” God says, “No, I want you to be righteous.” The world cheers for power and dominance. God whispers, “Walk in gentleness.”
At the end of the day, the source matters. Because "whatever root you’re drawing from, that’s the kind of fruit your life is going to produce."
So,
James actually breaks it down for us really simply. He says there are two kinds of wisdom.
There’s earthly wisdom, the kind that’s fueled by jealousy, selfish ambition, and ends up just stirring up mess and confusion.
And then there’s heavenly wisdom, the kind that shows itself in purity, peace, humility, and sincerity.
We see notable difference in these two "wisdoms". It’s not just about the words, it’s about the heart behind them. Earthly wisdom might sound slick and clever, but at its core it’s usually about pride or self-promotion. Heavenly wisdom? It might not always match the way our culture thinks, but it’s grounded in love, truth, and the Spirit of God.
Our world says, “Make sure you’re right.” God says, “No, I want you to be righteous.” The world cheers for power and dominance. God whispers, “Walk in gentleness.”
At the end of the day, the source matters. Because "whatever root you’re drawing from, that’s the kind of fruit your life is going to produce."
“Consider others above yourself.” (Philippians 2:3)
“Speak the truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:15)
“Let your gentleness be evident to all.” (Philippians 4:5)
The Christian life isn’t about sounding wise, it’s about living wisely. And that begins with choosing the right source of wisdom, heavenly wisdom. Let God's voice be your guide, and His character be your compass.
“Speak the truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:15)
“Let your gentleness be evident to all.” (Philippians 4:5)
The Christian life isn’t about sounding wise, it’s about living wisely. And that begins with choosing the right source of wisdom, heavenly wisdom. Let God's voice be your guide, and His character be your compass.
Our challenge today is to
Evaluate the advice we’ve been following.
Is it leading us toward peace or pride?
Is it bearing fruit that looks like Jesus?
Let's Pray
God, there are so many voices pulling at my attention. Help me to recognize what’s earthly and what’s from You. Teach me to walk in Your wisdom, pure, peace-loving, humble, and sincere. May my life bear fruit that reflects Your Spirit. Amen
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