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Doers (of the Word) Live Wisely
Rod ShimabukuroIf any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. [6]But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. [7]For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; [8]he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1:5-8
James is writing primarily to Jewish Christians. His strong pastoral letter includes upwards to 50 commands in just a short 5 chapters and 108 verses. God, through James, is calling his people to live out their faith. to put their hearts belief into Christian behavior. One of the characteristics to live out our faith includes the instruction of WISDOM.
In my Midweek teaching, I emphasized reading James in context. One example I used is v. 5-8. People have been discouraged, even disillusioned with God because “they asked for wisdom” but didn’t get it because they feel doubt in their heart. Condemnation sets in when we don’t get the wisdom we are asking for because the Bible says God will give generously. So why doesn’t He give me the wisdom I’m asking for...now? Do I lack faith?
I believe James intended instruction was living out an active wisdom from heaven as described in the context of James 3:13-17.
[13] Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. [14] But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. [15] This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. [16] For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. [17] But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
This context prescribes that the enemy of selfish ambition, jealousy wars against the wisdom of heaven.
My application is:God will give wisdom - but not necessarily in our time, according to our needs. His heart and timing considers much more than “we see, experience or want.” I want to watch my hearts motives for wisdom. I want to always be open to God’s higher purposes and ways, that I don’t always consider, see or understand. It’s not that I “lack faith” but my “lack of faith” involves being too enthralled with ME - my needs, wants, desires. I’m learning that wisdom from up above to LIVE WISELY, includes a good conduct described in v17...gentle ,peaceable, merciful, etc. Help my conduct to display real, live wisdom!
Dear Spirit of God.
Thank You for always being generous in providing wisdom for Beckie and I - our family, finances and faith. Thank you for Your timing and understanding. For Your Spirit’s guidance to help me repent of my jealousy, selfish ambition, lack of trust and faith. You are so kind in forgiveness and extravagant in love! I want to be a doer of Your Word - who lives wisely.
