“The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable,
full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.” - James 3:17
True wisdom is evident in a person’s behavior.
What is true wisdom? James answers that question in verse 17 by pointing out
the characteristics or qualities of true wisdom. After purity, the next quality
is “peaceable,” which means “peace loving” or “peace promoting.” It refers to
someone who doesn’t create confusion or disorder. He doesn’t promote himself or
compromise truth but makes peace.
True wisdom is also “gentle.” A gentle person will submit to dishonor,
disgrace, mistreatment, and persecution with an attitude of humility,
courteousness, kindness, patience, and consideration. He will not display
hatred, malice, or revenge. True wisdom is also characterized as “reasonable.”
It refers to someone who is willing to yield, who is easily persuaded,
teachable, and compliant. It was used of a person who willingly submitted to
military discipline or who observed legal and moral standards in life and
willingly submitted to them. A wise person manifests such “reasonable” traits
concerning God’s standards for life.
“Full of mercy” refers to someone who shows concern for people who suffer and
is quick to forgive. He demonstrates kindness and compassion toward others.
“Good fruits“ refer to all good works in general or a wide variety of spiritual
deeds. The Christian demonstrates the genuineness of his salvation through his
good deeds—works that are produced by faith (James 2:14-20) and are called “the
fruit of the Spirit” (Gal. 5:22-23) or “the fruit of righteousness” (Phil.
1:11). “Unwavering” refers to someone who is consistent and doesn’t vacillate.
He is undivided in his commitment, doesn’t make unfair distinctions, and is
sincere in his faithfulness to God.
“Without hypocrisy” is the climax of true wisdom and speaks of someone who is
utterly genuine. He isn’t a phony or fake. A truly wise person manifests sincere
behavior.
If true wisdom is part of your life, it will be evident in your behavior.
Make it your aim to reflect the qualities of true wisdom so that others may see
Christ in you.
~John MacArthur, Strength for Today
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