3. UNIT 2: The Traits of Real Faith

4. James 1:25 “But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. ”

5. Lesson 7: Real Faith Practices Wisdom James 3:13-18

6. INTRODUCTION Biblical wisdom is the most important thing any leader, teacher, parent, or individual can have. Wisdom should be considered to be the highest and most noble of all possessions. Wisdom is “the practical application of Bible principles to real-life situations” (Steve Pettit).

7. 1. The Roots of Wisdom Contrasted Wisdom from below (v.15-16):Wisdom from above (v.13, 17): Comes from heaven Comes through humility Comes from the secular Comes through selfishness

8. 2. The Revelation of Wisdom Contrasted Wisdom from below (v.14):Wisdom from above (v. 17): Is cleansed – “pure” Is conciliate – “peaceable” Is considerate – “gentle” Is compliant – “easily entreated” Is compassionate – “full of mercy and good fruits” Is consistent – “without partiality and without hypocrisy Is critical – “bitter envying” Is contentious – “strife” Is conceited – “glory not” Is concealing – “lie not”

9. 3. The Results of Wisdom Contrasted Wisdom from below (v.16):Wisdom from above (v.18): Relational harmony – “peace” Righteous harvest – “fruit of righteousness” Confused disorder – “confusion” Carnal deeds – “every evil work”

10. CONCLUSION Self-centered ambition is at the root of all relational turmoil. Worldly wisdom produces anger, bitterness, resentment, divisions, and divorce. Godly wisdom yields peace, love, intimacy, trust, fellowship, and harmony with others. May we, with purified heart and on bended knee, ask God to give us “wisdom from above” that peace and righteousness might be enjoyed.

11. Next Lesson: Real Faith Produces Humility