Who is wise, honest, and understanding among you? The wisdom from above is humble, but worldly wisdom is not humble. Look around at the high-profile leaders who lord over people, lie, and seek vengeance. So, do not be naïve; Scripture says, do not use your position to lord over people entrusted to you (1 Pet. 5:2-3). God also said vengeance is mine. It is foolish to lie about your self-serving nature because a person with a discerning spirit will see through the façade.
Admit who you are, especially if you claim Christ. James reveals the characteristics of a person who likes worldly wisdom and those who do not. You cannot claim to know God: "If in your heart you are jealous, bitter, and selfish, don't sin against the truth by boasting of your wisdom" (James 3:14, GNT). Wisdom from above does not harbor bitterness and selfish ambition. If believers think they are wise and their life is a prisoner to the traits James mentions in this verse, it is deception.
Can you bridle your tongue and not speak words that dishonor God, others, and yourself? It helps to recognize language that others use to deceive and manipulate people. It is hard to be honest about bitterness, envy, and selfish ambition if we condone unhealthy words and actions. This is God’s truth: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Eph. 4:29, NIV). A wise person's words are gracious, unlike the evil one who stirs up strife and fails to say anything good. We must be careful not to boast about what we assume is true. Scripture says: "Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence" (Prov. 12:17, ESV).
Those who dishonor others in speech do not speak God's Word. When someone tries to make themselves look good at the expense of others, examine their words. God's truth will always reveal itself. A common political tool is to discredit opponents with misinformation. We must listen if we are to recognize people who slant their opinions to reflect their biases. We choose complimentary words for those we consider like us and sneaky words for those we think are hindering our path. A smile becomes a smirk, strength becomes arrogance, and honesty takes a backseat. Those who reject the truth and follow their evil desires know anger and frustration because their lifestyle feeds on these things. This is God’s truth: "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves" (Phi. 2:3, NASB). Do not deny the Truth; sometimes your way may seem right, but its end is death. There is an entire generation that through their arrogance consider themselves pure but fill their minds with worldly philosophies that condone lying and denigrating people. Do not deny God’s truth!
Minister Nettie Pennington, Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
