"But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic." - James 3:14‭-‬15

A wisdom that it's coming from the flesh

Also James earlier in its book says that:"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." - James 1:5And this is not a wisdom of philosophical speculation, but the wisdom which it's contained in the pure and peaceful norms of God's will and which is revealed in His Word (cf. James 3:13,17) and translated into action. Only such divine wisdom makes believers able to rejoice and submit to the trials of life.

What do we do about it?

In verse 17, it is described the kind of wisdom that are coming from heavens:"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."

Wisdom that is coming from God

The egocentric wisdom that is consumed by personal ambition does not come from God. It is:<ul><li>earthly - limited to the earth</li><li>unspiritual - characterized by human character, fragility, an unsanctified heart</li><li>demonic - generated by satanic forces</li></ul>How this manifests itself, we find answer in verse 14.<ul><li> bitter envy -> attitude of harshness & resentment towards others</li><li>selfish ambition -> gives rise to rivalry and dissent</li></ul>

Let‘s break it down - "bad" wisdom 

<ul><li>pure - spiritual integrity and moral sincerity. </li><li>peace-loving - who loves or procures peace</li><li>considerate - such a person will submit to all kinds of abuse and difficulties with an attitude of gentle humility, politeness, patience, without any thought of hatred or revenge. ( cf. Matthew 5:10-11 )</li><li>submissive - a person capable of receiving a teaching kindly and who willingly submits to discipline or legal and moral norms. In the case of Christians, it is a matter of conforming to divine standards ( cf. Matthew 5:3-5 ).</li><li>full of mercy - The gift of compassion for those who suffer physical pain and deprivation and the ability to forgive quickly ( cf. Matthew 5:7)</li><li>impartial and sincere - a person who is consistent, persevering, fully devoted to his commitments and beliefs and who does not make unjust distinctions between people ( cf. James 2:1-13)</li></ul>

Let‘s break it down to what each of its attributes mean

The word wisdom is met in the Bible many times. It is always said that we all need it. But recently I've found an chapter that explains that there are two kinds of wisdom. It is in the book of James ( Jesus's brother ), chapter 3 - verses 13 to 18.

Two kinds of wisdom

The New International Version in a handy, affordable paperback edition.

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International Bible Society Staff is an accomplished writer whose work has resonated with readers around the world. International Bible Society Staff has published several books that explore a range of topics, from fiction to nonfiction, and has received critical acclaim for the ability to weave compelling narratives. International Bible Society Staff's writing style is known for its depth and authenticity, and has earned quite a loyal following of readers.

A wisdom that it's coming from the flesh

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