Devotion:
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Read James 3:17.
How would you define “wisdom”? Is it simply intelligence? Or “street smarts,” or common sense? Does wisdom come from years of study, or regular attendance at church worship services? Is wisdom something that you can buy, borrow or steal? How do you define wisdom? How do you define or recognize wisdom in others? The reality is that we all will have our different (and sometimes conflicting) definitions of wisdom.
The writer of James has a different take on this. He is trying to describe the wisdom that comes from God in words like “pure, peaceable and gentle.” What James is describing is a practice almost counterintuitive or even countercultural. James is pointing out that we don’t have to wear ourselves out chasing after wisdom, or jumping through some theological hoops, or try to possess secret or arcane knowledge. All we need to do is be receptive and listen to what God is trying to share with us. We simply need to be still and listen. Sometimes (at least for me) that’s hard to do. But I’ve learned that God keeps inviting us to listen.
Prayer: Lord, help me to slow down and listen. Fill my heart with your wisdom, grace and love. In Jesus’ name Amen.
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