Every Good Gift: A 28-Day Advent DevotionalSample

Now we know what wisdom looks like. James helps us identify the wisdom that comes from heaven and shares hope with the world around us. In doing so, he emphasizes how important wisdom is to the good life. But James makes an important distinction in his opening question in James 3:13. He asks, “Who is wise and understanding among you?” Understanding in this verse refers to skill and experience, implying that wisdom must be applied.

Wisdom is not just knowing the right course of action, it is understanding how to bring it to life. It is a way of orienting ourselves to life, positioning ourselves to bring wisdom into our every day through our decisions. It is how we bring the Kingdom of heaven to earth.

If wisdom that comes from heaven seeks to bless others, understanding seeks to do it effectively. By taking in the perspectives and circumstances of those around us, we are better positioned to apply wisdom in a way that makes the good life a reality for them.

Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”  We have already learned that wisdom is a reflection of Christ and it puts us in a position of reverence and humility. This is the place we all must begin. And then, when we learn more about Jesus and who He is, we understand how to live like Christ who was the ultimate example of wisdom embodied in everyday life.

Wisdom makes us look like Christ.

Understanding shows us how to live like Him.

Prayer:

Jesus, help me to apply the wisdom that You have given me with understanding. I want to help others to experience the good life You have for them and I recognize that I need understanding to do that. Continue to reveal Yourself to me that I might know how to live like You and give hope to the world around me. Amen.