Wisdom is not “what we know”, but “what we do and how we live with what we know”. James 3:13-18 gives us insight to what true wisdom looks like.

V13 – When we live what we know, we must do it with humility. Unfortunately, our world does not celebrate humility. The world celebrates pride and arrogance. When we live in humility, others will see it in our lifestyle.

V14-15 – Bitter jealousy and selfish ambition are the opposite of humility. These qualities come from earthly wisdom, which leads to unspiritual wisdom, which leads to demonic influence.

V16 – disorder is another word for CHAOS. When we have selfish ambition, we create chaos. God is a God of order (shalom). Man’s wisdom brings chaos, but…

V17 – wisdom from above is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. Remember, it’s not about the amount of knowledge you have. You can be any age and be wise or foolish. Man’s wisdom brings chaos, but God’s wisdom brings shalom.

V18 – The seed of the gospel through a life lived in wisdom, matters! We are all sowing seed.

1. Do you leave chaos or shalom at home? at work? in school? with friends? How?

2. What kind of seed are you sowing?

3. How do YOU bring shalom to Thanksgiving Day? What conversations should you avoid? What will you focus on?