13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. 15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
- Which "wisdom" in this passage would you want to ask God for?
- What is likely in the heart of a "know-it-all" person?
- How often do you struggle with jealousy and selfish ambition?
- What is society's opinion of jealousy and selfish ambition?
- What is God's opinion of jealousy and selfish ambition?
- What does the wisdom from above sound like to you? (Gal 5:22-23)
- What appears necessary to have peace?
Bitter jealousy and selfish ambition is demonic and unspiritual. Wow! What a condemning statement about the culture we swim in. I mean, isn't it just smart to try to get ahead, even at the expense of my fellow worker? As I reflect, I think that phrase, "isn't it just smart", should be a warning siren that what comes next probably is not God's wisdom. The world around us considers it dumb to be merciful, peaceable, and gentle. The person striving to get ahead is always striving and that is not peaceful. The world's wisdom cannot compare to God's wisdom (1 Co. 1:20-24) so why do we seek it over God's wisdom. Sorta shows we are not wise, huh?
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