Introduction

‘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. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.’ James 3:17-18

The letter of James helps us to understand that our lives as God’s people should be enriched with wisdom that is divine. He attributes purity, peace-lovingness, consideration, submissiveness, mercies, impartiality and sincerity to the wisdom that originates from God.

We need to call to memory that all good and perfect gifts are from God that these include heavenly wisdom which is full of goodness and love. ‘ …………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. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.’

The Holy Writ says that our God is pure and holy therefore the wisdom from Him is first pure. God is the author of peace, therefore the wisdom that comes from Him is peace-loving.

The wisdom from Him suggests that we should trust and obey Him. He is an impartial God therefore the wisdom from Him is without partiality. What a mighty and glorious God we have! Why should we not desire the beautiful wisdom that emanates from Him?

It is also important to note that the wisdom from heaven is full of good fruit. This good fruit in James 3:17 is not different from the fruit of the Spirit which Paul analysed to the saints in Galatia. He further explained that there is no law against the components of the ‘fruit’ of the Spirit.

In the closing remarks of Paul to the Philippians, he encouraged them to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. Are these indeed not desirable?

‘Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.’ Philippians 4:4-9

Prayer

Our Father in heaven who alone is wise, we kindly ask that You grant unto us your divine wisdom that is full of virtues. May our lives be adorned by the brightness of your love and goodness through Christ our Lord.