Day 2: Two Kinds of Wisdom

Reading: James 3:13-18; 1 Corinthians 3:19-20

Not all wisdom is created equal. There is a wisdom that feels right, sounds reasonable, and appeals to your emotions and instincts. Then there is a wisdom that comes from heaven. James draws a sharp contrast between the two. Earthly wisdom produces envy, selfish ambition, disorder, and darkness. Heavenly wisdom produces purity, peace, mercy, and sincerity. The sobering truth is that we can dress up earthly wisdom in respectable clothing and convince ourselves it is godly. The filter we must apply to every decision, reaction, and attitude is simple: does this reflect God or does this reflect me?

Reflection: Think of a recent decision or reaction. Which kind of wisdom was driving it?

Practical Application: Before making any significant decision today, pause and ask yourself whether your reasoning reflects heavenly wisdom or earthly instinct. Bring it before God before moving forward.