Tag Archives: wisdom

December 26
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“And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:52, NASB)

Bethlehem, the manger, the heavenly host, the visit of the wise men, and all of the other wondrous features of our Lord’s arrival were a great beginning; but it didn’t end there.  The baby Jesus became the boy Jesus, who became the adolescent Jesus, who became the fully-grown man.

In our lives, there are many wondrous beginnings: The birth of a child; a wedding; a new lease on life after a serious illness; a new day. It is only the first step. Advancing through each step that follows is as expected as night following day.

We grow in stature because we take nourishment over time.  We grow in wisdom by the same principle, but instead of food, it is obedience to the word of God that increases wisdom and divine favor.  – Luther

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November 24
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“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

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November 22
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“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 3:13, NIV)

Deeds done in humility are particularly fragrant because the person performing the deed is not doing it to draw attention to herself. Wisely, she sees a higher purpose and a bigger plan in play.

The greatest deeds, by God’s estimation, are performed in obscurity; the left hand unaware of what the right hand has done. The greatest deeds provide help to the helpless; hope to the hopeless; and empower the disenfranchised.

Everyone — regardless of title or status — can live a life of humble service to others and to God. Make this your ambition.  – Luther

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