Thursday May, 20 2021 Devotional
"Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom." - James 3:13
Those recognized by the world for their knowledge are often arrogant, ambitious (in the negative sense) and self-serving. Being well-trained or highly talented in one narrow area, they often begin to think they are experts at everything.
Wisdom and understanding in the biblical sense include knowledge but go far beyond that. Wisdom and understanding include the ability to apply the knowledge we have in a kind and unselfish way and at the same time to allow others to correct us, recognize that we don’t know everything and can still be taught something new.
The Bible tells us often that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, so wisdom begins with an attitude of humility. Meekness essentially means “teachable-ness.”
If we do whatever we do with an attitude that begins with the fear of the Lord and continues with an attitude of teachable-ness, we are well on our way to “showing our works in the meekness of wisdom.”
If not, it’s time to get on our knees and start over, seeking and receiving God’s forgiveness for our sinful attitude. God is quick to forgive for Jesus’ sake and put us on the right path once again. The Apostle James wrote, “If anyone lacks wisdom, let him ask God who gives to everyone freely and without scolding, and it will be given him.”
Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me Your Holy Spirit to dwell in my heart. Let the fruit of Your Spirit be borne out in my life in all my attitudes as I work today. Amen!
Pastor Dan Giles