October 16
The Purity of
Godly Wisdom
James 3:17-18
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.
Daily Steps
After detailing the chaos caused by worldly foolishness (Day 290), this passage provides the new believer with a beautiful, actionable portrait of godly wisdom. This wisdom, which comes from heaven, is defined not by intellectual brilliance, but by a series of visible, character-based virtues, starting with purity.
The peace in this principle is found in visible virtue:
The Origin and Foundation: True wisdom comes from heaven. It is rooted in God's perfect character and is available to those who ask God generously (Day 287). It is first of all pure, meaning it is unmixed, untainted by selfish ambition (Day 290), and free from hypocrisy—it is completely sincere (Day 280).
The Attributes of Godly Wisdom: Godly wisdom is expressed through practical, relational qualities. It is peace-loving (The Tranquility of Peace, Day 222), considerate (showing humility, Day 283), submissive (obedient to authority, Day 289), and full of mercy and good fruit (compassionate and productive, Day 284). These attributes secure a life of joy (Day 268) and unity.
The Resulting Harvest: The final result of embodying this wisdom is powerful: Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. Living this way not only secures personal righteousness (Day 224) but also spreads peace and life to the surrounding community (The Call to Mission, Day 274).
Your peace is secured by visible virtue. Embrace the Wisdom of God today by actively demonstrating these qualities: seek to be pure, peace-loving, and full of mercy, knowing that this godly wisdom is the only path to producing a harvest of righteousness in your life.
Reflective Question
If godly wisdom is first of all pure and sincere, are you allowing any compromise or hypocrisy to taint your spiritual life? Which of the seven attributes (e.g., peace-loving, considerate, submissive) do you most need to pray for and practice today?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my weakness in demonstrating godly wisdom. I thank You that the wisdom that comes from heaven is available to me. I pray that You would make my heart first of all pure and sincere. Secure my peace today, as I strive to be a peacemaker who sows in peace, so that I may reap a harvest of righteousness and honor You. Amen.
