Year of the Bible: Part Six of Twelve Sample

Wisdom from Above

King Rehoboam chose not to listen to wise, proven counsel. Instead, he listened to the counsel given by his peers, who did not have the people in mind; instead, they encouraged Rehoboam to think of himself and elevate himself through harshness.

The book of James gives us a good grid by which to discern Godly wisdom: "Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace" (James 3:13-18).

The book of Proverbs also tells us the purpose of the Lord will stand, and it is our choice to lean into Godly wisdom. "Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand" (Proverbs 19:20-21).

Our world is constantly self-seeking. We have a choice: do we promote our own idea of grandeur as Rehoboam did with the advice of his peers, or do we lean into loving God and loving others by being selfless and mimicking the wisdom from above?

Question: When you seek advice, do you want it for selfish ambition, or do you seek to be impartial and sincere? Do you ever ask for advice from those who might disagree with you?

Prayer: Pray that God will help you be pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere. Ask for God to help you seek Godly advice from those around you.