James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
Introductory Thoughts
The Bible mentions two types of wisdom: worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 3:19) and godly wisdom (James 1:5). These distinct wisdoms oppose each other in several aspects including their relationship to hypocrisy. Man claims to live wisely and yet encourages something that counteracts true wisdom—hypocrisy. This is because God’s wisdom operates only when hypocrisy is absent. At first, this might seem quite difficult to achieve, yet righteousness is never accomplished through sinful means. The only way to demonstrate true wisdom is to do so with purity and mercy void of partiality and hypocrisy.
Devotional thoughts
- (For children): A friend tells you he plans to get even with a child who broke his toy. Because you also do not like this child, you choose to say and do nothing. However, godly wisdom always chooses God’s word over how we feel. Consider these scriptures (Ephesians 4:32; Romans 12:17a). What should be said or done to this child?
- (For everyone): What should a person say when asked for his opinion concerning something sinful? Should he remain silent? Should he avoid offending the person asking the question? Should he rather choose to utter all his mind?
- What kind of wisdom are you manifesting? Does hypocrisy exist in your wisdom?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God for godly wisdom.
- Ask God to teach you more about wisdom and hypocrisy.
SONG: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
Quotes from the next volume
(VOLUME 4, WEEK 17)
Subject: Hope (con’t)
The world looks at those who read the Bible and wonders why anyone would desire to read about the lives of those who lived thousands of years ago. Yet, the testimonies found in scripture concerning God’s provisions continue to provide hope for man today.
Man continues to experience a sense of emptiness more prevalent today than at any other time in history. Every day, people expend an enormous amount of time, strength, and money hoping to obtain the ever illusive happiness.
Regardless of man’s circumstances, hope can put a song in man’s heart and praise upon his lips.