“TRUE WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING”

13 “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.”

James 3:13

One would expect an intellectually advanced person to behave well and speak with wisdom—but that’s not always true. In fact, some of the most aggressive, rude, and poorly mannered people have university degrees. These people love getting into arguments and debates but aren’t really interested in listening. They constantly interrupt others, assert that they are right, and think that their ideas are better.

Someone wrote, “Before you speak, make sure that your tongue is connected to your brain. Many people are well educated but not totally mannered.” In fact, the Bible agrees.

In James 3:13-18, the Bible gives us the right concept of wisdom and understanding. From a Greek standpoint, it is the accumulation of earthly knowledge and making a name for oneself. However, James is not speaking from a Greek or Roman perspective, but from a Hebrew mindset. He doesn’t refer to the wisdom of world-renowned Greek philosophers, but the practical application of God’s word into one’s daily life.

In context, James is talking to men who aspire to become teachers (3:1). These are men who must be well-versed in the Scriptures and have the ability to teach in order to take the office of a teacher. He challenges them by asking who is wise and understanding among them. The word “understanding” (epistēymōn) focuses on intellect and factual knowledge. On the other hand, the word “wisdom” (sophos) is more of a practical, real-life application of moral reasoning.

James does not take away the importance of intellectual knowledge, but his point leans toward the importance of one’s conduct. To him, gaining academic recognition does not necessarily translate to practical wisdom. The religious elite, i.e. the Pharisees, who had formal scriptural training and higher status in the religious community, took pride in their accomplishments and considered themselves wise. However, James suggests that such accolades are not the same as the wisdom that comes from God.

Instead, James notes that good conduct shows the  “meekness of wisdom.” Humility can be understood as “gentleness.” The Greek term used is not a passive gentleness that comes from weakness but the ability to control one’s strength. As such, this gentleness is a manifestation of the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Our generation pays too much attention to human achievement and accolades while brushing off the importance of humility and restraint. We celebrate those who do well in the fields of academics, politics, and sports, but we don’t always notice those who live by the words of Christ.

As people entrusted with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I implore us to take James’ challenge. Do our actions and words reflect this message? Are people drawn to our humility, or do our arrogance and sarcasm put them off? Do we seek to listen or do we tend to be the loudest voice in the room?

May we follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, who said these words:

 29 “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:29

Pursue the Savior today!