Devotion:
Read James 3:13-18.
In our passage today James contrasts false wisdom and true wisdom. Just as we can identify a tree by the type of fruit it bears, so can we evaluate our wisdom by the way we act, the fruit we bear. Traits of false wisdom, called foolishness, are bitterness, envy, selfishness, and boastfulness. When we act foolishly, our lives are full of chaos and disorder. True wisdom comes from God and produces the good fruit of peace, consideration, submission, and mercy. God’s wisdom is characterized by getting along with others, by being gentle and reasonable. When we display God’s wisdom we overflow with mercy and grace and love. Do you want to build a reputation for wisdom? The Message version says to “live well, live wisely, and live humbly.” Let’s practice God’s wisdom and live a life “full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds.”
Personal Worship Option:
Think today about whether you practice foolishness or God’s wisdom.
- When did you extend mercy instead of giving someone what they deserved?
- When have you been judgmental instead of merciful?
- What are the fruit of good deeds you’ve shown to others?
- Learning to live the way of Jesus Christ is to learn wisdom that is not like the ways of this world.
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