Wisdom is something that we all need, but not everyone has it. It's more than knowledge. It's different from that experience. It's not limited to those who are older. Wisdom is a gift from God that is available to everyone who seeks it and is committed to living it. These are some of the truths we learn from James, the one with great wisdom.
James was Jesus' half-brother, and his life changed when Jesus came looking for him after his resurrection. Was James a skeptic before Jesus came to visit him? Likely. Was James an immediate follower of Jesus like the disciples in the Gospels? Likely not. And yet, when James was convinced of who Jesus is, His life was radically changed, and he had wisdom that was unique among his peers and needed for his day.
James' wisdom can be seen in how he led the early church in Jerusalem. He, along with Paul and Peter, made a way for Gentiles to become a part of the church without placing unfair expectations on them - think circumcision - while at the same time keeping the church pure. His wisdom is on full display when he says in Acts 15:9: “It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God." May we all have the heart of James when it comes to sharing our faith with wisdom and opening our lives to others with wisdom.
James' wisdom is also seen through the letter that he wrote. to the churches who were dispersed from Jerusalem due to persecution. We call this letter the Book of James, and it is filled with hard-hitting truth and wisdom. That's why it should be a regular read for all disciples, even today. Consider some of the lasting lessons from James.
Faith and Works
James emphasizes the integration of faith with action, asserting that genuine faith is manifested through deeds. He writes, "What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?" (James 2:14, NIV). This challenges us to move beyond mere verbal profession of faith and actively live out our beliefs. In today's world, where authenticity is often tested, James reminds us that our actions must align with our convictions for our faith to be meaningful. Just to be clear, James isn't saying that we are saved by our works but that our works show that we are saved. James, the one who freed the Gentiles to follow Jesus without living based on the law, wouldn't shackle you and me with the law that never saves.
Trials and Endurance
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance" (James 1:2-3, NIV). James encourages believers to view trials not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. This perspective is crucial in navigating life's challenges, where resilience and endurance are essential. Whether facing personal hardships, societal pressures, or global crises, James' wisdom teaches us to find joy in the refining process of trials, knowing that they strengthen our character and deepen our faith. Wisdom says to seek God's work in you even when it is tough around you. Wisdom looks for God's hand, trusts Him, and follows Him where He leads even through difficult days.
Taming the Tongue
James also addresses the power of words and the importance of controlling our speech. Wise people know the impact of their words. That's why he warns, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be" (James 3:9-10, NIV). In an era of instant communication and social media, where words can spread rapidly and impact lives profoundly, James' counsel remains true. It challenges us to use our words wisely, to build up rather than tear down, and to reflect the love and grace of God in all our interactions. Never forget the weight of your words, and choose them wisely.
Humility and Wisdom
"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom" (James 3:13, NIV). James connects wisdom with humility, highlighting that true wisdom is demonstrated not only in knowledge but also in how we live and treat others. Get this: wisdom isn't found in what we know, but instead, wisdom is found in how we live what we know. If you want to grow in wisdom, I suggest this prayer: God, be my teacher, and I will commit fully to living what I learn from you.
Applying these key wisdom truths from James can lead to a transformed perspective and a more purposeful way of living grounded in faith, wisdom, and love.
James was Jesus' half-brother, and his life changed when Jesus came looking for him after his resurrection. Was James a skeptic before Jesus came to visit him? Likely. Was James an immediate follower of Jesus like the disciples in the Gospels? Likely not. And yet, when James was convinced of who Jesus is, His life was radically changed, and he had wisdom that was unique among his peers and needed for his day.
James' wisdom can be seen in how he led the early church in Jerusalem. He, along with Paul and Peter, made a way for Gentiles to become a part of the church without placing unfair expectations on them - think circumcision - while at the same time keeping the church pure. His wisdom is on full display when he says in Acts 15:9: “It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God." May we all have the heart of James when it comes to sharing our faith with wisdom and opening our lives to others with wisdom.
James' wisdom is also seen through the letter that he wrote. to the churches who were dispersed from Jerusalem due to persecution. We call this letter the Book of James, and it is filled with hard-hitting truth and wisdom. That's why it should be a regular read for all disciples, even today. Consider some of the lasting lessons from James.
Faith and Works
James emphasizes the integration of faith with action, asserting that genuine faith is manifested through deeds. He writes, "What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?" (James 2:14, NIV). This challenges us to move beyond mere verbal profession of faith and actively live out our beliefs. In today's world, where authenticity is often tested, James reminds us that our actions must align with our convictions for our faith to be meaningful. Just to be clear, James isn't saying that we are saved by our works but that our works show that we are saved. James, the one who freed the Gentiles to follow Jesus without living based on the law, wouldn't shackle you and me with the law that never saves.
Trials and Endurance
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance" (James 1:2-3, NIV). James encourages believers to view trials not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. This perspective is crucial in navigating life's challenges, where resilience and endurance are essential. Whether facing personal hardships, societal pressures, or global crises, James' wisdom teaches us to find joy in the refining process of trials, knowing that they strengthen our character and deepen our faith. Wisdom says to seek God's work in you even when it is tough around you. Wisdom looks for God's hand, trusts Him, and follows Him where He leads even through difficult days.
Taming the Tongue
James also addresses the power of words and the importance of controlling our speech. Wise people know the impact of their words. That's why he warns, "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be" (James 3:9-10, NIV). In an era of instant communication and social media, where words can spread rapidly and impact lives profoundly, James' counsel remains true. It challenges us to use our words wisely, to build up rather than tear down, and to reflect the love and grace of God in all our interactions. Never forget the weight of your words, and choose them wisely.
Humility and Wisdom
"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom" (James 3:13, NIV). James connects wisdom with humility, highlighting that true wisdom is demonstrated not only in knowledge but also in how we live and treat others. Get this: wisdom isn't found in what we know, but instead, wisdom is found in how we live what we know. If you want to grow in wisdom, I suggest this prayer: God, be my teacher, and I will commit fully to living what I learn from you.
Applying these key wisdom truths from James can lead to a transformed perspective and a more purposeful way of living grounded in faith, wisdom, and love.