What are practical ways to discern "earthly" wisdom in daily decisions? The Verse in Focus “Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.” – James 3:15 What Scripture Means by “Earthly, Unspiritual, Demonic” - Earthly: locked into a here-and-now perspective, shaped by the world’s values (1 John 2:16). - Unspiritual: driven by natural appetites rather than the Spirit (Jude 19). - Demonic: influenced by lies that align with Satan’s agenda (John 8:44). Why Discernment Matters - Earthly wisdom may look impressive, yet God calls it “foolishness” (1 Corinthians 3:19). - It breeds “disorder and every evil practice” (James 3:16). - Only heavenly wisdom bears “peaceable” and “full of mercy” fruit that lasts (James 3:17). Practical Indicators of Earthly Wisdom - Motive check: envy or self-promotion lurking beneath the decision (James 3:14). - Fruit test: produces strife, anxiety, or moral compromise (Galatians 5:19-21). - Source audit: advice rooted more in popular opinion than in Scripture (Psalm 1:1-2). - Time horizon: fixated on immediate gain, ignoring eternal consequences (Matthew 16:26). - God-ward gauge: neglects prayer, dependence, and glory to God (Proverbs 3:5-7). Daily Steps to Detect Earthly Wisdom Before Deciding 1. Pause and submit the choice to God; refuse to rush (Isaiah 28:16b). 2. Open the Word—let passages that clearly address the issue speak first (Psalm 119:105). 3. Examine motives in light of James 3:14–16; confess any envy or selfish ambition. 4. Compare potential fruit with the works of the flesh vs. the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:19-23). 5. Seek counsel from mature believers committed to Scripture (Proverbs 11:14). 6. Ask, “Will this bring glory to God or mainly spotlight me?” (1 Corinthians 10:31). 7. Weigh the decision against eternity: “What is seen is temporary” (2 Corinthians 4:18). Scripture’s Contrast: What Heavenly Wisdom Looks Like - “Pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17). - Produces righteousness sown in peace (James 3:18). - Springs from “the fear of the LORD,” the true beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). Closing Encouragement Every daily choice—big or small—can be filtered through these biblical tests. As we rely on the living, inerrant Word, the Spirit trains our senses “to distinguish between good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14), freeing us from earthly wisdom and guiding us into paths that honor Christ. |
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