Connect360: The Right Kind of Wisdom

• Lesson 7 in the Connect360 unit “The Making of Authentic Faith: Wisdom that Works” focuses on James 3:13-18.

The wisdom we all should aspire to have is the wisdom from heaven above. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously.” There is something about the wisdom from God, no human can teach or train you to have.

James wrote wisdom that comes from heaven is “first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” He added, “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” This is so true. I have experienced being a peacemaker, which brings rewards in so many ways. For example, taking the criticism of others and hearing both sides tend to help most scenarios when dealing with people.

Ask God for wisdom daily

Wisdom from above makes you complete in your walk with Jesus Christ. You can deal with certain situations that come your way and deal with certain attitudes and behaviors of others and yourself. Asking God for wisdom daily is proven to save you from terrible situations.

Take a look at Daniel 6:7 and how all the governors and earthly wise men wanted the king to make a decree. Because of their jealously, they wanted to accuse Daniel of not abiding by the decree of speaking or praying to any other god but the ones they worshipped in Babylon. Daniel kept praying three times a day to the true God, looking to Jerusalem and serving the Lord despite opposition. What a beautiful example of heavenly wisdom.

Understanding and wisdom go hand in hand. Many think it comes naturally, but I believe you have to experience things to know. I believe you must be faithful and God fearing. You must be considerate and kind. David praised God for his justice and the joy of obeying him and denying those who follow the counsel of the wicked (Psalms 1:1-3). If you follow God and use wisdom, you are able to be “like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”

Applying good wisdom takes you further in life. Having good wisdom helps you control your attitude and discern what is right. Many seek wisdom, but few find it.

Compiled by Stan Granberry, marketing coordinator for GC2 Press, formerly known as BaptistWay Press.

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