The Wisdom That Is From Above

 James 3:13-18

 

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your heart do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."

 

We should understand that God attempts to inspire us in the components of wisdom by the Holy Spirit. It is in the soul where we make our decision to receive it. You have heard it said, "a chain is only as strong as it's weakest link". If the soul is weak, either because we have not yet heard or having heard, are unwilling to do (wayside ground), the blessing of His grace will produce little, if any, fruit. It falls to the ground as a torrent of water does little to help parched ground- it rushes past before it may be taken in. Satan's wisdom too often finds a place for rumination in the soul. At that point, the carnality of man is enticed, drawn away from the peace of His wisdom.

 

 

The answer lies in the soul's willingness to be a peacemaker. God's inspiration by the Holy Spirit awakens, alerts, reminds and warns us. (Without this empowerment it is impossible to overcome. Satan strikes at the weakest part of our souls.) He strengthens us to make peace (or produce peace in a place of temptation), displaying the fruit of righteousness! Be wise and understand this battle. As He inspires you in this, there will be less ground for Satan to sow his seed! What a blessing to recognize Satan's assault AS he comes to steal rather than after he has stolen. Christ is being formed in you!