Scripture Reading
James 3:17
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
Reflection
James gives us a diagnostic tool: how can we tell the difference between true wisdom and its counterfeits? True wisdom from God is recognizable by its character — it is peaceable rather than quarrelsome, gentle rather than harsh, open to reason rather than entrenched, full of mercy rather than judgment. When we face decisions today, we can test the options against this description. What choice before you today passes this wisdom test?
Prayer for Today
Loving Lord I know that it says in the Bible that the people of this world do not understand the Scriptures nor do they understand the things of the Spirit of God, because those things are foolishness to the natural heart of man. It says that people do
not understand the things of God because those things are spiritually discerned.
Give me spiritual understanding and wisdom to discern the things of God I pray, for it is my desire to know the truth You have promised to everyone who trusts You as Saviour.
At times, Lord, I feel as if I am a single sheep in the midst of a hungry pack of wolves as I travel through this evil world. But I also know that You have counselled us to be wise as serpents and as harmless as doves.
Give me discernment I pray, so that I may be as wise as a serpent in the midst of this crooked generation, but also give me the gentle Spirit of Christ, that the love of Jesus may show forth in my life as I seek to walk worthy for You. In Jesus' name,
Amen.
not understand the things of God because those things are spiritually discerned.
Give me spiritual understanding and wisdom to discern the things of God I pray, for it is my desire to know the truth You have promised to everyone who trusts You as Saviour.
At times, Lord, I feel as if I am a single sheep in the midst of a hungry pack of wolves as I travel through this evil world. But I also know that You have counselled us to be wise as serpents and as harmless as doves.
Give me discernment I pray, so that I may be as wise as a serpent in the midst of this crooked generation, but also give me the gentle Spirit of Christ, that the love of Jesus may show forth in my life as I seek to walk worthy for You. In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Amen.