We will continue to examine the details of man’s wisdom and how it operates. James 3:14-16 deals with Man’s wisdom and how we can identify if our wisdom is from God or man. As anyone could tell just by a quick read man’s wisdom does not operate in the spirit, but in the flesh. Its characteristics are totally different. When identifying the operation of wisdom, I can’t help but think of Galatians 5, where we see the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.
First, we will look at how man’s wisdom acts. Man’s wisdom can result in some pretty evil acts. They sound like the character traits of a villain from a mystery movie. Sometimes we are like those characters, and quickly learn how to show just a little evidence of the Spirit on the outward, while allowing the fleshly traits to dominate the situation. You’ve heard of a “win, win” situation well this is a “loose, loose” situation. Sooner or later God allows sin’s ugly head to rise up, and show itself for who it really is.
The verses referenced below in Galatians and Numbers are real reminders of the justice of God. I used them often with my boys. I wanted them to understand no sin is hidden from God.
Galatians 6:7 “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
Numbers 32:23 “But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out.”
Let’s break down each character trait of man’s wisdom as described by James.
James 3:14-16 “But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.”
Envy– It means selfish ambition or zeal. Many times in church people become envious of others’ positions or their friends. I’ve seen this way too often! Some even deceive themselves by thinking God could be glorified more if they did it their way. We must examine our motives. Do we rejoice when others succeed, or do we have envy and criticism? Do we feel burdened when others fail, or are we secretly glad? Are we quick to let others know about the failure?
Strife- This carries the same sense of discontent. Seeking to cause an argument. Philippians 2:3 “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves.” This is another verse our boys had to memorize!
Boasting– Pride loves to boast. We must be careful to report blessings so that God gets the glory, not us. When God’s wisdom is at work, there is a sense of humility and submission. There are no desires to compare yourself to other Christians because the goal is to honor Christ.
Deceit – “Lie not against the truth.” Notice the natural progression: envy – strife – boasting – lies. Deceit is the practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth. In other words, it is just a “painted up” lie!
None of these traits is something we want others to think about us, but there is a bit of each of them in all of us. We are born sinners and unless we constantly check ourselves we will find these sins creeping in. If we don’t deal with them with repentance and submission, to the Spirit, they will continue to show themselves until those around us see them. Remember, God is not mocked and your sins will be found out! As cleaver as we may think we are we cannot change the truth of the Word. If God said it, it will happen.
