Demonstrable Wisdom

We've all met people whom we'd happily describe as being wise. But worldly success alone doesn't always earn you the label of wisdom. We'd never call a self-serving, arrogant person wise. So what does it actually mean then, to be wise? Some people seem to be incredibly insightful. They have a knack of navigating their way through complexity to successful outcomes. And they're often powerful communicators, able to bring others along with them. Is that what it means to be wise? Well, perhaps … but only in part. Adolf Hitler was such a person, until he wasn't. No, there has to be more to wisdom than that. James 3:13 Are there any among you who are really wise and understanding? Then you should show your wisdom by living right. You should do what is good with humility. A wise person does not boast. So from God's perspective, true wisdom does indeed involve understanding, but it's an understanding that leads us to live right so that by our good conduct, by serving others, by the things we do in humility, we end up demonstrating our wisdom. Think of the leaders in your world, in your workplace, your community. Are they marked by humility and goodness, or is it their boasting and blustering that brings them short-term success? Because, make no mistake … if it's the latter, their success will indeed be short-lived. And here's the question for you: are you really wise and understanding? If so … you should do what is good with humility. A wise person doesn't boast. That's God's Word. Fresh … for you … today.