Godly Wisdom verses Worldly Wisdom
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 1:5
Worldly wisdom for many people is based on their fleshly desires or on knowledge from the world, but Christian wisdom is Godly wisdom that is based on God’s infinite understanding and power. Unfortunately many people fall for Satan’s lies and don’t know the difference between worldly wisdom and Godly wisdom.
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. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness (James 3:17-18). Godly wisdom comes from a heart of love that cares about others. Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people (Luke 2:52). Jesus grew in favor with the Father and with people; Christians also grow in favor with God and with people when our hearts care about others, including our enemies. You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:43-45).
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings (1 Peter 5:8-10). Godly wisdom is based on love and a caring heart both in our lives and in the lives of others. Our enemies are not our brothers and sisters in church; sinful people fill the world and Godly wisdom and love must extend beyond the church walls.
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (1 Timothy 2:1-2) Godly wisdom prays for our secular leaders, seeking peaceful lives in godliness and holiness. Godly wisdom is in a spiritual war with worldly wisdom and this war requires understanding of what Satan is doing and of what God is doing. Being able to recognize the workings of God and the workings of Satan is vital for Christians who desire to live their lives by Godly wisdom. It is Godly wisdom that cares about others, and we never want to see others controlled by Satan.
Today walk with Godly wisdom, caring about others and teaching them how to fight Satan’s fleshly temptations. Worldly wisdom is based on self-centered fleshly desires which can be very powerful, especially to young and inexperienced Christians. Pray for strength and wisdom, and guide your thoughts toward helping others to avoid Satan’s temptations.
Let’s Pray: Lord, guide me in your wisdom and help me to fight worldly wisdom, which will come to nothing. Guide me in the truth, and help me to recognize Satan’s lies. Help me to be a light in this dark world so that others will recognize Satan’s lies and reject them in favor of Godly wisdom. In Jesus name, Amen