James 3:13 - 4:12 ~ The Christians in between God and the World

The series on James continues with the issue of wisdom and worldliness. The second half of James 3 differentiates false wisdom from true wisdom. False wisdom is earthly while true wisdom comes down from above. The unspiritual and demonic characteristics of false wisdom is contrasted with that of true wisdom: pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reasons, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. As such, it is predictable that false wisdom produces jealousy, selfish ambition, disorder and every vile practice, while true wisdom sows a harvest of righteousness. Such wisdom and understanding is demonstrated in him who shows his works in the meekness of wisdom by his good conduct and in him who seeks to make peace.

James continues his letter by warning his readers against worldliness in chapter four. Due to passions, desire, covetousness and friendship with the world, quarrels, fights, murder, enmity with God, and adultery with the world happen. What should rather be happening is for God's people to ask correctly i.e. seek wisdom from above (relating back to James 1 and 3) and seek contentment and peace instead.

James goes on to explain how this can be done in verses 7-10. One should submit to God and resist the devil. He should draw near to God - Jesus has provided the access we need and the act of drawing near indicates the direction of submission to God. Rather than sinning, one should repent and cleanse his hands. Rather than being double-minded, one should purify his heart. He is also to be wretched, mourn and weep (mirroring the beatitudes and woes in the Sermon on the Mount). Humility is also a key element in submission itself that God's people may then be exalted, being rich in faith and co-heirs with Christ of God's Kingdom. One should also be wary about judging others for there is only one lawgiver and judge: God, who is able to save and destroy. Again, James is repeating himself here with what he has warned his readers previously in James 2.

Now equipped with the understanding of this passage, where do you see yourself standing? On God's side or with the world? Or perhaps a little double-mindedness as you shift to-and-fro between both sides? Which characteristics described in this passage do you identify best with, and is there a need to change? It's time we reflect the intentions of our hearts and seek His wisdom first...