13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. 15 Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.

17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Val Dewan

During a gathering with work colleagues, the topic of making big life decisions came up. My friends in this group are currently going through a season of making many big decisions and changes, such as buying homes, moving jobs or growing families. One colleague asked us the usual question: “Are you happy where you live right now? Are you happy with the local school?” My colleague’s question clearly comes from a place of “earthly” wisdom – he was curious to know if I shared his values in prioritising an academically-driven school, which he thought would set a successful path for his children’s future. His questions made me think: Did I make all the decisions to where I am today out of what I thought would lead to “success” in my future, or were they rooted in God’s word and wisdom?

In this passage, James highlights the stark differences between the wisdom that comes from above and the so-called “wisdom” that comes from human hearts. This “wisdom” is tainted by “bitter jealousy and selfish ambition,” leading to evil, chaotic lives. The passage challenges me to reflect on whether my decision-making is always drawn from the wisdom that is from “above,” which has the hallmarks of being pure, sincere and humble. I know that too often I fall short, because I do make decisions that are similar to those of my success-driven and ambitious colleagues. For example, it would be easy for me to doubt and be worried that the location of my school catchment may not bring out the academic potential that I desire in my children. Or I might worry that I am not making enough “big moves” at work that would set me up financially. James rebukes me for the times I think this way, because it is a worldly way of thinking, rooted in my own ambition and jealousy. How much better is making decisions that are rooted in God’s wisdom, that leads to lives that are not full of evil practice, but rather “full of mercy and good fruit.” I have been challenged to keep asking God to open my heart and seek HIs wisdom – and I pray that you will do the same and be encouraged that seeking God’s wisdom is seeking what is pure, peace-loving and good.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Val is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.