The Principal Thing Series

B. Shown in character (v.13b, 18) v.13 tells us what kind of character we should show through our lives, “meekness of wisdom.” We tend to think meekness is weakness, but the word picture in the Greek for meekness is a horse under control.

James has already shown us last week in v.3 that we put bits in horse’s mouths to direct them where they need to go. Our character should be directed by God, and if it is then the power of God is flowing through our lives.

Those who possess this character, those who are truly wise are empowered with their wisdom from on high. The fruit or evidence of this conduct is the righteousness in our lives. That word righteousness means character. The character of a Godly life is shown in peace. The word peace means prosperity.

Oh I could really spend a week right here in v.18, but I won’t. Let me remind you of two passages that illustrate what the Bible is saying here. Psalm 1:1-3

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.” (NKJ) Listen also to Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (NIV)

God is saying the conduct and the character of this Christian will be seen by all and blessed from above.

II. Ungodly Wisdom (v.14-16) America today is looking for wisdom from the world. Oprah, Dr. Phil seem to be the leading authority for America to find help for their struggles.

In Dr. Os Guinness’ article entitled “America’s Last Men and Their Magnificent Talking Cure” he talks about how America has become the world capital of psychological-mind-set and therapeutic endeavor. Although America had only 6% of the world’s population, it boasted over a third of the world’s psychiatrists, and over half the world’s clinical psychologists. 80 million Americans have now sought help from therapists. An estimated 10 million are doing so every year.

Folks I’m not anti-psychiatry, but we sure need to be seeking biblical counseling if we are truly seeking wisdom from above. Notice this ungodly wisdom.

A.It’s Attitude (v.14a) “bitter envying.” Where there is bitterness it possesses the whole life. It’s when a person holds on to a hurt from years gone by. Envying what someone else has.

James is painting a picture of an unwise person that is afraid of losing something. They become uncooperative and competitive.

B. It’s Ambition (v.14a) “self-seeking” this person is asking what’s in it for me. The phrase actually means someone who shows an inordinate desire for power or prestige. It is hidden motives of wanting our own way. **V.14b**