Wisdom From Above

By Beverly Hill McKinney

If someone asked you if you knew a wise person would anyone come to mind?
James 3:17 describes wisdom: “But the wisdom that if from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”

When I think of these traits, I remember a woman I met many years ago.
As a young pastor’s wife, it was difficult for me to know how to respond wisely in various situations. A widowed minister’s wife who was a member of our congregation and whom I looked to for wise counsel, spoke with me often and helped me to have confidence in my answers to others.

This remarkable woman had endured hardships and used those experiences to seek wisdom from God for her life which she freely shared.

In James we are instructed to seek wisdom from above. What are the attributes ascribed to a wise individual in this passage?

1) Purity - As this verse indicates, wisdom comes from above and is first pure. Our lives must be above reproach to be a testimony to those around us. There are many who have an earthly wisdom, but do not live pure lives. This wisdom is not from above and is filled with human frailties. However, when we draw nearer to the Lord in prayer and thanksgiving and depend on Him for our needs and wants, He will begin to fill our lives with pure thoughts and actions.
One of the things I remember well about my friend was her holy living and the influence she was to others. Her integrity was never questioned.

2) Peace-loving - When we think of those we may admire and seek wisdom from, they are individuals who are known for their peaceful lives and demeanor. How can we seek answers from those who have turmoil in their lives and don’t depend on God to control their thoughts and actions?
John 14:27 states: “Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

We can only have true peace in our lives if we are children of God. Christ gives us the assurance in this verse that peace does not come from this world, but from Him. Only by relying on Him can we obtain true peace. By having His true peace in our lives, He will give us wisdom to deal with difficult situations.

3) Gentle or Considerate - In order to have true wisdom, we must be considerate of others and their feelings. Wisdom is not unreasonable. A wise person always looks at all sides of a situation and considers the feelings of those involved. They are not harsh in their judgments or criticisms but find ways to spare hurts and unkindness.

I remember a situation where I had misunderstood someone and they were troubled by my actions toward them. Going to my wise friend, she carefully pointed out my miscommunication but in such a way that I immediately saw where I was in the wrong. She did not condemn me, but considered my feelings in the circumstances and helped me make a wise choice that resolved the conflict.

4) Merciful – James 3:17 states that the wise person is merciful and full of good fruit or blessings. They are always ready to bless others and do not think of themselves. They are helpful, giving, and willing to go the “extra mile” with us.
Those that have touched my life with their wise counsel have also been those who have influenced my Christian walk the most. They have been there when I needed help and have been willing to not only give advice but shower blessings on me.

In Matthew 5:7 (The Message) “You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full,’ you will find yourselves cared for.” Those that show true wisdom are those who care and shower blessings on others.

5) Impartial – When we approach others seeking wisdom, we want someone who is impartial. Not those who will always take our side but who can weigh what is said and offer impartial advice.

Looking at a wise person, they are not someone who will always give us an answer we want to hear, but will listen carefully and give a fair and correct assessment.

Christ is our great example of an impartial person. Whether he was eating with sinners or sharing with his followers, he shared God’s love with them. His love was the same for everyone and he showed that love for all by giving his life for the world.

When we think of those who were considered wise in the Bible, King Solomon immediately comes to mind. He was given the choice to ask anything of God and it would be granted. He wisely chose wisdom.

Where does Godly wisdom come from? In James 1:5 it states: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.”

As Christians we can come before the Lord and ask Him to give us wisdom for our lives. When others come to us seeking our help and wisdom, we can direct them to the true source of wisdom, our friend, Jesus.

Beverly Hill McKinney writes from Rogue River, Oregon. bmckinnehill@yahoo.com