Wisdom From Above | Faith That Moves | 2.1.26

Follow Along with the Message

Scripture Reference:  James 3:13-18

Before reading the scripture, think about what James is asking.  He asks the reader to think about what kind of wisdom am I actually living by

Read:  James 3:13-18

What is wisdom?

• Wisdom is not claimed, it is shown.  

o   Wisdom is not primarily about what you know

o   Instead, it is about your character, conduct, and behavior, all applied with love, humility, and care.

o   Godly wisdom has seven qualities:  pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive/meek, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, sincere

• False wisdom

o   False wisdom is motivated by self-centered ambition.

o   We can recognize it: 

• Serves self
• Focused on winning, controlling, manipulating
• Driven by envy and ambition, resenting others’ success
• Produces disorder, disharmony, division, broken relationships

What kind of wisdom is guiding our lives?

• Check in with yourself:  On a scale of 1 (least wise) to 10 (most wise), how wise do you think you currently are?
• Which part of this definition do you feel you are excelling at?  Which needs prayers for improvement?
• What situations do you lean toward godly wisdom?  False wisdom?

How can we grow in God’s wisdom in our daily lives?

• Ask God for His wisdom – wisdom is a gift before it is a skill; start with humility
• Admit selfish pursuits – release control and surrender to God
• Learn God’s wisdom – observe Jesus; see life God’s way and apply it in relationships and decisions
• Walk in daily wisdom – exercise it in small, daily choices