It was a very full day yesterday, Father, and I thank You for Your watch care and direction. A busy day at work and an evening of inspiration lent themselves to a good night’s rest. I am blessed.
James 3:13-18 (<<click here to read the passage)
Oh, the dichotomy of earthly wisdom and wisdom that we find through You, Lord. James states,
“If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.” (emphasis mine)
So often, earthly wisdom is characterized by “bitter jealousy” and “selfish ambition.”
Lord, it comes down to a mentality of “me” or “others.” Essentially, wisdom is the culmination of experience and knowledge, and applying that understanding in our lives with sound judgment. So do I seek to use the measurement of wisdom I have for my own selfish gain, or do I seek to use it humbly – without pride – to benefit others, as well?
The world around me is consumed with looking out for “number one” – no one else is looking out for my best interests, so I have to. But what a difference it makes when we seek to look out for the best interests of others. When we do so – people’s lives are changed – sometimes their lives are even saved!
I can’t help but think of the daily news (of which I watch and read very little). It is so full of evil and pain – but that is what people want to see. But…thankfully, people love “Good Samaritan” stories and tales of individuals sacrificing their own safety to benefit or save someone else.
Lord, may my life be lived out in giving myself over to help others. Enable me to do “good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.”
(Sept. 13th, 2016, Tues, 6:39 am)
July 1st, 2025, Tues, 10:24 am
