Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. James 3:13

 

A person’s character is developed by years of his up brining, beliefs he has gained over the years and personal convictions. All of these added together produce that person’s character. Today’s passage gives insight to one who has ingrained their life in God’s word and has a personal relationship with the Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

Good behavior is one character trait of a child of God. But, there are many outside the faith who are “good people”. The difference is their source of wisdom and reasoning. James 3:14-16 says: But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. Someone who has not entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ is self-seeking. They do things their own way. Their reasoning is opposite of God’s standard of living. It doesn’t take long after talking to a nice person to recognize where their source of wisdom is gained.

 

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:17-18

 

Godly character is developed over time. Once saved, the source of wisdom should come from God’s word and prompting of the Holy Spirit, who lives in every believer. The people you keep close to you should have these character traits, so together you can develop a strong spiritual bond, thus thwarting the devil’s attempts to divide and conquer.

 

Your character matters in this life and is influenced by the people you associate with and the source of knowledge and truth you seek after. Seek after Godly wisdom and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). God bless!