By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
James 3:14-16 "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." - NIV
We live in a world of competition, rights, privileges and ambitions, and some are more privileged than others. None of these attributes are bad when rightly channelled with respect to others. But when they are pursued with evil intentions to suppress, dominate, crush and be ahead of others, they graduate into envy, confusion, bitterness, fights and every evil practice one can imagine as people struggle to protect and defend their interests.
Apostle James was comparing godly and demonic kinds of wisdom. Demonic earthly wisdom(which is actually folly), takes pride in promoting selfish ambitions, unhealthy competition, intrigue fights and every form of evil that makes them feel better and get above others. Many are such people, who arrogantly boast of their successes and privileges over the disadvantaged, calling this ‘wisdom’. They are spurred on by jealousy and selfish motives, which are good breeding grounds for all other forms of evil. They should instead be ashamed.
James defines godly wisdom, being the opposite of demonic wisdom thus; “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.” (James 3:17). Its wisdom to remain humble and respectful even when well positioned and privileged over others. And this is what God has called us all to practice. Be wise Godward.
Proverbs 8:12-13 "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech."
Shalom children of God.