What Is Wisdom?

Journey through James: 3:13-18

Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. — James 3:13-18

Many people claim to be wise. The world offers a form of wisdom. Wisdom is more than intellect or knowledge. Wisdom is not shown merely by what we know, but more in how we live. 

James tells us that those who are wise will show their wisdom through their good conduct. Wisdom is not brash or proud, but meek. Wisdom is not self-centered. James warns us that if we have jealousy or bitterness in our hearts we are not living in wisdom. Wisdom does not boast. If we boast that we are wise, we are actually proving that we are not wise. If we have jealousy or bitterness in our hearts, we are in opposition to the truth. To let these things dwell in our hearts while claiming to be wise is to be false to the truth. 

Many are jealous and bitter but claim to be wise. However, James tells us that this wisdom is not heavenly wisdom but worldly, unspiritual, and demonic. This type of “wisdom” does not produce anything worthwhile. When we act out of jealousy or selfish ambition, it leads to disorder and all kinds of evil. When we are focused on ourselves and our own “rights,” we become harsh and petty. We look at others as stepping stones or as a means to an end. While we may pretend to care for them, we only care for ourselves. Living like this leads to chaos and misery. This is not biblical wisdom. Worldly wisdom is only seeking to elevate one’s own interests. 

What is true wisdom then? James tells us exactly what true wisdom looks like. First, it is pure, not tainted by selfishness. It is peaceable and gentle. Godly wisdom can exhibit these characteristics because it is not concerned with personal gain. Godly wisdom seeks to honor God and help others. The wisdom that comes from above is open to be reasoned with. This is because those who have Godly wisdom are ready to learn from God’s Word. Godly wisdom shows itself through mercy and good works. These acts of mercy are not only towards those who deserve it. True wisdom is impartial and sincere. Those who are truly wise apply God’s wisdom to everyone. Those who are truly wise seek the benefit of everyone around them, not just themselves. 

True wisdom is not found in knowledge; true wisdom is found in rightly applying knowledge. True wisdom leads to peace and righteousness. May we grow in godly wisdom and leave the jealousy and selfish ambition of worldly wisdom behind.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever! — Psalm 111:10