“The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure…” James 3:17
One of themes of the book of James is Genuine Wisdom. James contrasted two kinds of wisdom. False wisdom produces envy and selfish ambition (3:14), whereas genuine wisdom results in humility, deeds of mercy and right conduct (3:13). Wisdom helps Christians control their speech (3:1-12) and promotes peace, consideration, submission, mercy, good deeds, impartiality and sincerity (3:17).
Two Kinds of Wisdom James 3:13-18
13) Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14) But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15) Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16) For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. 17) But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 ) Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
Based on this scripture, think about the life of a woman guided by spiritual wisdom. What are the primary evidences of a wise life? Which quality do you struggle with least? Most? How might attaining spiritual wisdom affect your life this year? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The book of Proverbs has two themes: Wisdom and Practical Living. Wisdom is a personification of God’s attribute of wisdom and ultimately stands for God himself. The truth expressed is that there can be no real wisdom apart from God. To fear God is to begin on the path of “knowledge”—understanding or insight (1:17). Knowledge is to have understanding and wisdom is the ability to apply the knowledge. Proverbs presents principles for godly living and has much to say about wealth, work, giving and matters of the heart. The range and scope of its subject matter encompass nearly every aspect of life. Proverb’s purpose is to propel us into a relationship with God so we might live out the truths He shows us in this guidebook.
Prologue: Purpose and Theme (Proverbs 1:1-7)
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight;
3 for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and
just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young-
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning
get guidance-
6 for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.
7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise
wisdom and discipline.
Based on this scripture, what words did Solomon use to describe the various aspects of wisdom? (1:2&3)
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What kind of wisdom do you rely upon the most—human or spiritual? How is your life affected by your choice? Do we go to God and His Word to seek wisdom before we go to others or try to find a good book with answers for us? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
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