Gentle Wisdom

“Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.  But if you have bitter jealousy and  selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth.  This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist,

there is disorder and every evil thing.” -James 3:13-16

There is a difference between sharing wisdom and spouting off. Too often, especially in Blogsphere, people like to spout off. I’ve done it. It’s easy to say something without actually having taken the time to do the research to find out if your perception is accurate (both logically and as a representation of Christ).  One of the easiest ways to identify whether someone is sharing wisdom or if they are indulging their own ego is to break down their “argument”  to the motives.

• Are they offering their perspective with humble kindness?
• Are the tearing down their neighbor or offering help, love, support?
• Are they a reputable source of knowledge on the topic they are addressing?
• Are they able to back up their position Biblically or are they spreading an unsustainable, invented morality?

If you have spent a decent amount of time with a person in real life, it is even easier to understand their motives.

• Are they the type of person who is kind (especially when it is hardest to be so)?
• Are they the type of person who is joyful, uplifting and encouraging to be with?
• Are they trustworthy?
• Are they actively striving to become more like Christ?
• How much effort do they put into helping others (especially within their own family)?
• Are they continuing to grow and mature as the years go by and they get older?

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience…” –Colossians 3:12