James 3:17 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.

If the truth be told, some people don’t even want this kind of wisdom! However, the results are certainly more satisfying than those from strictly intellectual wisdom. One thing to note is that this wisdom is received rather than achieved. It requires a fundamental humility that the Old Testament refers to as “the fear of the Lord” (Psalm 34:11 and many more) It is this humility that causes some people to reject it, because they are mired in the pride of Lucifer, and don’t want to acknowledge that they are utterly dependent on God. It doesn’t take much power of observation to realize that this sort of wisdom is in short supply in many areas of society, particularly politics. However, before we start pointing fingers, we need to look honestly at ourselves. Jesus’ illustration of the speck and the log is particularly applicable here. (Matthew 7:3-5) The problem is, we don’t usually use these criteria in evaluating ourselves. If we would do so, our spiritual growth would be greatly enhanced!

Of course, this applies to me as much as it does to anyone. With a high IQ, intellectual pride has always been a problem for me, and the Lord has had to show me the difference between knowledge and wisdom, sometimes through my rather painful mistakes. I am tempted to feel that because I often know more that whoever I’m with, that makes me somehow better than they are. That’s the devil’s trap! Right now I’m sharing a hospital room with three other people, which is a beautiful opportunity to share Christ with them. However, if I come across as looking down on them in any way, whatever I might say to them will fall on deaf ears. I am to let the Holy Spirit guide me in what to say when, so that my words may express His wisdom in His love, drawing these men to Christ for their salvation.

Father, thank You for this interruption to my schedule. I didn’t plan it or want it, but I receive it from You. May I make the use that You intend of this time, to accomplish Your will on Your schedule for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!