Daily Bible Reading – September 2022: "God’s Renewing Word of Wisdom"Sample

September 28

Introduction

James exhorts his readers to watch what they say, and he uses various images to describe what the tongue is capable of. He then provides a description of two types of wisdom – worldly wisdom that is demonic and pure wisdom that comes from heaven above.

Scripture Reading

James 3:1-18

Today’s Key Verse: James 3:17

The wisdom from above is pure first of all; it is also peaceful, gentle, and friendly; it is full of compassion and produces a harvest of good deeds; it is free from prejudice and hypocrisy.

Reflect

What is your reaction to the way in which James describes the tongue? Is the tongue hard to control? How do you react when someone gossips about another? What is the effect of words that are spoken in love? Here are two sayings that echo James’s teachings: “Gossip is so tasty – how we love to swallow it” (Proverbs 18:8) and “Kind words are like honey – sweet to the taste and good for your health” (Proverbs 16:24). Read also what Jesus says about what comes out of our mouths (Mark 7:14-23). How does James describe the two types of wisdom (verses 13-18)?

Pray

Lord God, guard my lips this day from uttering curses and anything that is displeasing to you. May I sing your praises and offer words of thanksgiving, and may I speak only words of love and encouragement to others. Teach me to seek after wisdom from above that is pure, peaceful, gentle, and friendly. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

James 4:1-17: James issues several warnings about criticizing others and about boasting.