The Be-Attitudes of the Christian Walk ~ Be Wise

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 

“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere.  And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:17-18

Wisdom in History

In early Colonial America, conflict and hardship were inevitable. Amid these tensions, wisdom—and the lack of it—shaped the relationships between native peoples and new settlers. There were those who, in typical human fashion, came to the shores of the New World with a mind to conquer the land and all those who lived in it. Others came seeking peace and a place to truly worship God without the confines of the religious law that snuffed out grace. 

One powerful example of peace-building wisdom is found in the story of Massasoit.

In an attempt to welcome the newcomers yet still protect the land and well-being of his people, Massasoit was a peacemaker. Though he may not have read James 3:17, Massasoit lived out wisdom that was ‘peace loving, gentle… and full of mercy.’ His choices exemplified the kind of wisdom that yields peace. 

Wisdom Leads to Peace

Because of his wisdom, there was a period of peace between the settlers of New England and the Wampanoag people. The people of the new colony even cared for Massasoit when he became ill, furthering the peace between the various groups of settlers and Native Americans. Unfortunately, greed, pride, and fear became the norm and peace did not last. 

“Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.
    Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.” Proverbs 3:7

History does repeat itself doesn’t it? Too often … A lack of understanding – a harsh word – an accidental offense – all can lead to conflict. Worse, intentional provocation or bullying can lead to international unrest, as we saw in the post COVID riots and conflicts. Our human inclination tells us we are right; we have the right to loudly proclaim that we are right.

True Wisdom

And we might be right… But God’s Word tells us that true wisdom is:

• Pure – What are your motives? (Proverbs 20:11, Proverbs 16:2 Matthew 5:8)

• Peace loving – What is the outcome you desire? (Matthew 5:9

• Gentle – Will your words and actions build up or tear down?(Ephesians 4:2, 4:29)

• Humble – Are you willing to yield to others or be “submissive” when appropriate? (Philippians 2:3-4)

• Full of Mercy – Can you forgive when there has been an offense?(Luke 6:36, James 2:13)

• Has the fruit of good deeds – What is the fruit others see in your life? (Matthew 7:16, Galatians 5:22-23, Matthew 5:16)

• Shows no favoritism – Is your opinion based on outward factors or the heart? (James 2)

• Sincere – Are your words and actions in line with a heart that desires to serve God rather than man? (2 Corinthians 2:17, I Peter 1:22)

Historically, the common people did not have Scripture in their own language. Today, there are still millions waiting for the Good News to be translated. Not having Scripture is not an excuse for acting foolishly. God has revealed Himself to many who did not have the Written Word. But having Scripture at the touch of our fingers places on us a responsibility to seek wisdom from the Source of all Wisdom, God and His written Word. 

Seek Wisdom

Every time I see a bird making a nest or a tiny ant carrying a large load, I am reminded to pray for wisdom. ( Job 12:7-9, Proverbs 6:6-8)

What can be a reminder for you in your daily walk to seek God’s wisdom? 

Do you ask for wisdom in everything – or just the big stuff? Ask, God is willing to give generously.

Pray

Dear Wise Heavenly Father, Please fill my heart and head with wisdom that comes from knowing you and the Word you have given me. Guide me in the words I speak and the actions I take. Help me to make wise and gracious decisions. In Your Precious Name, Amen

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Study Further

I hope you will take time to click the link on the verses to further your study on wisdom and let the words in the song below soak into your soul.

Songs of Wisdom – He Will Carry You

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Resources:

Proverbs 2

Book of James

Searching for the Treasure of Wisdom

God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life by Timothy and Kathy Keller

Wycliff Bible Translators

If you found this helpful, please feel free to share it with your friends and family and read my other blog from the series,  “The Be-Attitudes of the Christian Walk.” 

My name is Keri Willis. I am a semi-retired educator. I spent a great deal of my career working with adults with developmental disabilities and many years in elementary education, in the classroom and as an administrator. My main ministry now is coordinating the women’s ministry for our church in San Diego, CA. I have been married thirty-four years and have two grown and married children. I now have a head of full grey hair and good ideas. I believe we are created to use our gifts and to be creative. That comes in many forms for me. I love to woodwork and use power tools, design, decorate, garden, and create new recipes. And I love to write. One major lesson I have learned in my writing journey is that I need to be still and listen to hear God’s voice before I am prepared to put into words the message he has instilled in my heart. This has been much easier since I am no longer working full time, but it is so easy to get distracted and not listen, which almost always ends with an empty page in the form of writer’s block. While I have written many articles for newsletters and local newspapers, I did not consider myself a writer until I self-published my first book, Teapots and Power Tools. https://www.amazon.com/Teapot.../dp/1466458763/ref=sr_1_3... The idea emerged as I was working on a project in my garage. I had worship music playing, power tools out and saw dust flying. I glanced up and saw my delicate teapot sitting on my router table. The message was clear. Sometimes we are using the power tools God gives us and sometimes he just wants us to be still and have tea with him. The book became the foundation for a women’s retreat, and then my amazing niece helped me work through publishing it on Create Space (now KDP). At least five other projects are in different stages of production. I joined hope*writers to help motivate me and keep me focused and accountable. I am still trying to figure out the whole website and blog thing. That is my next goal for myself; that and finish writing at least one of my projects! Teapots and Power Tools: Effectively using the tools God has equipped you with, while taking time to “Be Still and Know That He is God” View more posts