Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. (James 3:15)
CHRISTIANS HAVE A SOURCE OF WISDOM available to us that is beyond the world and ourselves. Today, the self-help market has become a multi-billion-dollar industry, producing everything from books, to conferences, to video programs, to podcasts. Millions of people are drawn to the wisdom and advice of others in attempt to experience growth and reach their full potential. While some of this may be helpful, it also can cause us to drift from God’s wisdom and way of thinking. There is great contrast between the world’s way of thinking and God’s way. Bitterness, envy, and selfish ambition result from a wisdom that is earthly, unspiritual, and of the Devil. This kind of wisdom is presented to us each and every day.
I was recently waiting to board a plane in an airport and could not help but overhear the very loud phone conversation of the woman next to me. It began with what can only be described a bitter envy and selfish ambition that resulted in her using a good deal of profanity and a very uncomfortable atmosphere for those of us around her. I witnessed an earthly wisdom in her approach, which was not from above and did not seem to get the results she was hoping for. Be aware of the source of wisdom you choose to follow and recognize its results.
Let go of earthly “wisdom” and embrace God’s way of thinking.
Brian D. Bennett is the pastor of Overflow Church and lives in Benton Harbor with his wife and three children. He is the author of Go Now and Be the Church.
© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
