In January 2025, there was a series of deadly fires in the Los Angeles area, fueled by the Santa Ana winds. The fires consumed almost everything in their path. Using James’s analogy, if the fires were the tongue, the wind represented the heart (James 3:5–6). The fire went where the wind blew.

Two distinct paths are laid out in chapter 3 by James. The first path follows earthly wisdom, which uses the untamed tongue to destroy like a forest fire. The second path chooses heavenly wisdom, which sows peace and brings forth the fruit of righteousness. It brings life. The choice is ours to make.

In James 3:13, the author challenges his readers: “Who is wise among you?” This question connects to 3:1, “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.” James is saying that biblical teachers should have a handle on their tongue. Their lives and speech should reflect the wisdom given by God.

James warns that the wisdom of this world is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic (v. 15). It harbors bitter envy and selfish ambition in the heart. It expresses itself in the wicked speech highlighted in verses 2–12. “[The tongue] is a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (v. 8). Uncontrolled speech, fueled by our sinful nature, results in disorder and evil practices. There is nothing attractive or beautiful in it. It produces death rather than life. As Galatians 6:7 concludes, “A man reaps what he sows.”

By contrast, heavenly wisdom produces beautiful characteristics in people. Their speech reflects the God they serve. They become peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit. They are peacemakers who sow in peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.

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