“By wisdom, a house is built, and by understanding it is established,” Proverbs 24:3 (ESV). Great news, but how do we distinguish godly wisdom from human knowledge? James 3:17-18 reveals both the characteristics and order of priorities within wisdom: “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincerity. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” First in line? Purity…pure love, pure motives, and taintless sincerity. Great counsel delivered or received with wrong motives will never bring the intended results. However, even difficult-to-receive counsel is welcomed when delivered with a purity of motives, gently and mercifully delivered, and embodied in God’s peace. LORD, may I walk in Your wisdom. May my counsel to others always epitomize Your purity of heart, Your grace, and Your goodwill.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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