James 3:13-18 Godly Wisdom vs. Earthly Wisdom

My commentary says it's most important to determine whether we are relying on heavenly wisdom or earthly wisdom from Satan.  The way each operates is clearly different.  If we see envy cropping up, it's clearly not spiritual wisdom working.  Strife -- getting all the support we can -- is another marker.  

Boasting comes with earthly wisdom, and can even infect spiritual things.  "There is a way to report blessings so that God gets the glory, but there is also an approach that gives men the praise," my commentary said.  "Boasting usually involves lies," which bring deceit into the picture as well.

On the other hand, the evidences of spiritual wisdom include meekness -- "Not weakness but power under control"; purity of life; peace; gentleness -- sweet reasonableness; compliance -- agreeableness; mercy; good fruits; and sincerity.

My commentary also noted a contrast in outcomes, with trouble, confusion, instability, jealousy, competition, and self-promotion resulting from worldly wisdom.  God's wisdom, though, results in blessing, fruits, righteousness, and peace.  That sure sounds like a better life!

One last thing I read -- "It is a serious thing to be a troublemaker in God's family.  One of the sins that God hates is that of sowing discord among brethren."  That smacks of earthly wisdom.

Father, I need Your wisdom more every day.  Please help me to recognize earthly wisdom when it tries to invade my soul and help me to put it away.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford