What Are The Characteristics Of A Wise Person? Series

The quest for wisdom is an ageless pursuit that rewards the seeker with a lifetime of knowledge, satisfaction, and personal success. These are riches that never lose value with time.

James, the brother of Jesus (Matthew. 13:55) and leader of the Jerusalem church (Acts 15) have been asked this question and answered around A.D. 40. “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” …. … (James 3:13)

James establishes that wisdom is more than a matter of the intellect. Many have wrongly concluded that they cannot be wise because they do not have the superior intellectual capability. James, being a Jew, operated from the mindset that wisdom has to do with one’s moral and spiritual influence along with one’s choices. Wisdom is a matter of the will, not just the mind.

What James says about wisdom is very close to what Paul says about the Holy Spirit-filled life in Galatians 5:22-23. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things” Both wisdom and Spirit-filled living involve the believer’s submission, obedience, and dependence on God. An even closer parallel to James’ concept of wisdom is the emphasis of the book of Proverbs. Proverbs was written to give wisdom (Prov. 1:1–2). Wisdom is a gift from God (Prov. 2:5–6) and is given to those who fear Him (Prov. 1:7) and who earnestly pursue the knowledge of God (Prov. 4:7). Similarly, James tells us that wisdom is given to those who wholeheartedly pursue God and who ask for wisdom amid trials (James 1:2–8). For James, wisdom is demonstrated by moral and spiritual life that is attractively beautiful to both God and men.

In Pursuit of Wisdom is a treasure trove of spiritual and practical wisdom that equips us to live our best lives. Knowledge is important, but it fails to create transformational change in our lives if it isn't converted into action. It is important to gain a thoughtful and practical understanding of the foundational Characteristic of Divine Wisdom mentioned in the Book of James “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favouritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:17-18NLT)

The following characteristics are based on James 3:13-18:

1. Peace-loving – Wise people don’t foster division. Instead, they work to end strife and turmoil.

2. Gentle – Wise people treat others with care and respect.

3. Considerate – Wise people put the needs of others ahead of themselves whenever possible.

4. Humble – Wise people don’t constantly brag, boast, or display a prideful attitude.

5. Merciful – Wise people demonstrate compassion, forgiveness, and kindness to others.

6. Good deeds – Wise people live an upright and moral life.

7. Sincere – Wise people are genuine, real, and honest; not deceitful, hypocritical, or false.

8. Impartial – Wise people are fair and just. They do not show partiality to others for their benefit.