“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.” (James 3:17, New Living Translation)
In today’s scripture selection, James contrasts earthly wisdom with heavenly wisdom.
Earthly wisdom’s perspective is 70 or 80 years — enough only to cover our time on this earth. If you think you can outrun to the grave the scales of human justice, what is to prevent you from being contentious, rude, and unyielding in your dealings with others?
On the other hand, heavenly wisdom has an eternal perspective. It recognizes the reality of spiritual things, and of God’s reckoning.
Resist earth’s Siren call to its ways and to its wisdom. Other people may scoff at your “naivete,” but only for the short span of their lives. The approval of God is forever! – Luther
“There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.” (Proverbs 21:30, NIV)
A reality check: God is all-powerful.
By our own estimation, we do so many things well; and we begin to think that that is the end of it. However, when we take God into account, things change.
Proverbs reminds us that our wisdom is no match for God; our insight is not match for God; and all of our plans are no match for God.
We do best to follow His wisdom, knowledge, and planning, lest we come to the end of our course and find embarrassment — rather than accolades — as our reward.
Commit your days and your ways to the Lord, and He will guard your path. – Luther