Wisdom From Above
Prayer for Illumination:
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer. Amen.
Lynn Canyon in North Vancouver is a beautiful place to hike, there’s a short suspension bridge that swings over a raging river, surrounded by thick, green rainforest. If you keep following the trail, you’ll come to Twin Falls, and from there you can see from another wooden bridge—it’s truly a stunning sight.
The area is breathtaking but also dangerous. The cliffs are fenced off, and several ‘Extreme Danger’ signs warn of the risk to cliff jumpers. These warnings are important because hidden underwater rocks and strong currents make it fatal. In the past 25 years, more than 20 people have tragically lost their lives here.
Yet, despite the clear warnings, every summer young adventurers ignore the signs, climb over the fences, and leap from the cliffs into the icy waters below. On July 4th, another young man lost his life after taking this risk.
Last summer, I visited Twin Falls. While there, I saw a group of young men recklessly plunging into the water. It was frightening to witness, especially since a close friend of mine lost her sister in that very spot years ago.
As I stood on the bridge, one of the men climbed out of the water and dried himself beside me. I asked him why he was willing to take such a dangerous risk. He told me he had been jumping from those cliffs since he was a boy. He knew exactly where to jump to avoid hazards like shallow areas and strong currents; for him, it was fun and exhilarating.
Though his skill, bravery, and knowledge of the area—the water’s depth, the hidden rocks, and the flow of the currents—might be impressive, I couldn’t help but wonder: was he truly wise? He was chasing thrills and excitement, ignoring the danger, even though the cost could be his life.
We’ve been studying the Book of James, often seen as the New Testament’s version of wisdom literature, much like Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs in the Old Testament. In this letter, James shows us how to put our faith into action, teaching us how to live it out in real, everyday life.
Today, we’re focusing on wisdom. But what exactly is wisdom?
Many people believe that wise people must be very knowledgeable — a deep understanding of many subjects.
Others often think wisdom is gained through experience. But as we know, not everyone who is knowledgeable or experienced is truly wise — which is to say not every elderly person knows how to live well.
True wisdom isn’t simply about what you know or how much experience you have—it’s about how you live and the choices you make: It’s the ability to navigate life with discernment, integrity, and grace.
In ancient Greece, wisdom was symbolized by the owl, often associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. Athena was depicted with an owl on her shoulder, representing intelligence and sharp insight.
Owls are nocturnal, known for their extraordinary ability to see at night, symbolizing the capacity to find truth or understanding in difficult or confusing situations—times when others might be left “in the dark.” Additionally, owls are quiet and observant, qualities that reflect wisdom’s essential traits: the ability to listen, reflect, and act with thoughtful judgment.
Biblical wisdom goes even further. It’s not just intellectual knowledge or life experience; it is a deeper understanding that comes from God. This kind of wisdom aligns us with His will, guiding us in how we live our lives.
In today’s passage, James begins with a question that should make us reflect: “Who is wise and understanding among you?”
The term “understanding” comes from the Greek epistēmōn, which refers to intellectual knowledge. But the term “wisdom” that James emphasizes, comes from the Greek word sophos, referring to practical wisdom—moral reasoning applied to real-life situations.
We often measure wisdom by a person’s ability to answer hard questions or offer deep insights. But James challenges that assumption. Instead of focusing on knowledge alone, he says, wisdom is proven by action.
In verse 13, James challenges us, saying, “Show me.” Show me your wisdom through a life marked by good deeds, done with a spirit of gentleness.
True wisdom, the kind that comes from God, isn’t about how much you know but how you live. It’s revealed in actions that reflect kindness, selflessness, and goodness.
James warns that it doesn’t matter how knowledgeable or respected you may be, or even if you’re a great teacher—if your heart is filled with bitter envy and selfish ambition, you are not truly wise.
He makes it clear: where envy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and harmful behavior. Wisdom rooted in self-interest always leads to conflict and chaos.
It seems that James’ audience was dealing with internal strife. In Ch 4, V 1, he asks, “What causes fights and quarrels among you?” Most likely, they were tempted to blame others, pointing fingers at those they disagreed with.
But James redirects their attention. He says the real issue lies within—the selfish desires and passions battling inside them.
They fight, covet, and even kill in their pursuit of what they want. Driven by envy and ambition, they seek to win at all costs.
James delivers a powerful wake-up call: “You think you’re still following Christ? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world, living by selfish desires, becomes an enemy of God.”
In essence, James is saying that if you claim to be wise, your life should show it. Your deeds, done with humility, should reflect your wisdom.
He already told us in Chapter 2 that faith without works is dead. Now, he’s saying that wisdom, too, is proven by a good life. If your actions don’t back it up, it’s not God’s wisdom.
True wisdom is seen in a life lived for others, in serving, in making peace, and in reflecting the love of Christ. A truly wise person doesn’t boast about their knowledge or position; they live in a way that draws others toward God’s love and truth.
So, how do we become wise? Where does true wisdom come from?
If you search online for the “wisest person in history,” one name consistently appears: Solomon. And what did Solomon, the wisest man, say about wisdom?
Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
This “fear of the Lord” isn’t terror; it’s a profound reverence for God, a deep respect for His authority, and a desire to obey Him. Until our hearts are aligned with God, we cannot have the wisdom that comes from above.
Without the fear of the Lord, we might gain knowledge and make practical decisions for this life, but we will lack the defining ingredient of true wisdom—God Himself.
James gives us the key to acquiring this wisdom. He says in Chapter 1, verse 5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
God wants us to have His wisdom, but we must ask with faith and trust. If we doubt, we become like waves in the sea, tossed by the wind, unstable and uncertain.
And what does God’s wisdom look like? James tells us it is “pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy.” It creates a “harvest of righteousness” sown in peace by those who make peace.
True wisdom is rooted in humility, purity, and a desire for peace. It seeks to glorify God and uplift others.
So how do we know if we are acting with godly wisdom? If you find yourself constantly stirring up conflict or clinging to selfish ambition, you’re not acting with the wisdom that comes from above.
Even if your opinions are correct, if they lead to division rather than peace, they are not expressions of godly wisdom. Wisdom knows when to yield for the sake of unity and peace.
So, are you bearing good fruit in your daily decisions? Wisdom isn’t just theoretical knowledge; it’s practical. It’s about knowing how to live rightly before God and with others.
Where in our lives do we need godly wisdom? What areas require wise decisions? The answer is everywhere. Every day we face choices that can either lead us closer to God’s will or further away.
In our relationships — whether with family, friends, coworkers, or spouses — wisdom is essential. How do we respond when conflicts arise? Do we react out of anger OR speak with love, patience, and grace? Godly wisdom teaches us when to speak up and when to be silent. It helps us listen, yield, and pursue peace rather than stirring up division.
When my husband says, “Why is the food tasteless?” should I take his plate away or bring him salt?
Parenting requires a depth of wisdom. How do we guide our children in faith and character? What decisions will shape their futures?
When my first child was born, I had several parenting books and many experienced mothers gave me tips. But in crucial moments, what I needed was not in the parenting books. I had to ask God for help.
In the workplace, ethical dilemmas, deadlines, and conflicts are common. Do we prioritize profit and personal gain, OR do we work with integrity, fairness, and concern for others? “Do I
And what about our time? Life pulls us in many directions, but are we seeking God’s kingdom first, building relationships, and serving others? Wisdom teaches us to balance in a world that demands more than we can give.
In all these areas, godly wisdom goes beyond what human logic can offer. It invites us to see life through God’s eyes, helping us make decisions rooted in love, humility, and righteousness.
Yesterday, we gathered for a visioning meeting with Rev. Dr. Dale Woods, sharing our wishes, listening to the stories of others, and envisioning what our church is called to do in our community and beyond.
We now face important decisions about the future of our church, and they will require sacrifice, courage, and, most importantly, wisdom.
These are pivotal moments where prayer and discernment are essential. But let’s not forget—it’s not about our personal preferences.
It’s about God, His mission, and how He’s calling us to shine His light right here. Godly wisdom will guide us to make decisions that align with His purpose, not just our desires.
So, let’s seek His wisdom earnestly. Godly wisdom is not something that comes instantly but grows over time—through prayer, reflection, and submission to God’s will.
But here’s the promise: God is generous. He promises to give wisdom to those who ask in faith. If we seek His wisdom, He will guide our decisions according to His will.
Think back to the cliff jumpers—chasing after temporary thrills, ignoring the dangers for the sake of momentary pleasure. Like them, we too can be tempted to pursue selfish ambition, ignoring God’s warnings, and ending up in chaos. But that’s not our path. We have a higher calling.
Let us pursue the wisdom that comes from above—wisdom that brings peace, gentleness, and humility. Let’s submit ourselves to God, resist the temptations of the world, and draw near to Him.
When we seek wisdom with the right motives—for the good of others and the glory of God—He will give it to us generously.
Let us pray.
We come before You, acknowledging that true wisdom comes from You alone.
As we seek to live lives that reflect Your love and truth, we ask for the wisdom that is pure, peaceable, and full of mercy.
Guide our hearts to make decisions that honor You and bring peace to those around us.
May we draw near to You daily, trusting in Your generous and gracious guidance. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.