“Who is wise and understanding among you?” (verse 13) James begins by asking, “Who thinks they understand what true wisdom is… and who really has it?” Whenever I’ve heard a teacher ask a question like that, it’s usually to challenge what I have originally thought to be true.

We’ve all heard the phrase, ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS… and James goes on to tell us that if you are wise, it will be shown in what you do. True wisdom is not something that’s merely in your head - some profound culmination of knowledge - but it’s something that will be demonstrated in how you act. Humble and honest, pure, peaceful, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, sincere, impartial and fruitful. (Remember the fruits of the Spirit? love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control… a wise person will be fruitful, exhibiting these characteristics.)

That’s quite a bit to live up to in order to think that I’m wise! Solomon knew that there was nothing better to ask for and to have than wisdom. He knew that he didn’t have the power, strength, wisdom, whatever, to accomplish the task that God had given him. So his one request was that God give His servant a discerning heart to govern and to distinguish between right and wrong (1 Kings 3:7-9).

I think when the above listed things are what we strive for (humility, honesty, mercy, etc.), wisdom will come. When you think about people who exhibit these things, it is evident they think things through… they don’t make rash decisions… they aren’t our for their own personal gain. James also warns us that when we are focused on our on our own ambitions for personal gain will only bring disorder.

And if we go back to Solomon’s example, we are again reminded of God’s goodness, faithfulness, and rewards.  1 Kings goes on to say in chapter 3, that God promised Solomon wisdom PLUS greatness among His people, riches and honor.  He was also promised that if he remained obedient, God would give him long life.  Again, more promises to remind us that it’s worth it to be obedient and faithful.  I hope to live a life that others can look at and see wisdom.