SCRIPTURE: But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile]. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals]. James 3:17-18 AMP
THOUGHT: If you’ve been reading along for long, you probably know that I really enjoy reading Scripture from a variety of translators. Nuance is so important to understanding, and so is a fresh look. If you pass by James 3:17-18 with just a sleepy nod because you’ve already read, heard, or memorized it, you miss so much – so, even though verse 17 is repeated from yesterday, take a look at it anew. Like, what about “reasonable [and willing to listen]”as an explanation for “submissive”? Or, “unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile]” for “impartial and sincere”?
As you dive a little deeper into the meanings of words, you can really begin to envision what the world might be like if everyone operated according to the wisdom from above. What a joy to be surrounded by people (including self) who operate out of kind, reasonable, and compassionate spirits. You never question their moral character, they are honest and pure-hearted – no guile – and you see the fruit of lives well lived. Their faith is unwavering, and they are always sowing their peace into others, bringing them along to maturity. Sounds like heaven, right?
This is sanctified imagination, and it’s good for us to practice. If we’re to have a robust desire for heaven, we need to spend time trying to imagine what it might be like, and it sure doesn’t hurt to get a taste of it here and now.
PRAYER: Oh God, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us a taste of the wisdom from above in our families, our friendships, our church gatherings, our offices, our schools, our halls of government, and our world.
Dear Reader,
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Blogger Amy Clemens is the author of Walking When You’d Rather Fly: Meditations on Faith After the Fall. In it she explores childhood sexual abuse and how it impacted her faith (or lack thereof) for four decades. You’ll find not only her story, but better yet, the Big Story of God.
Check out Walking When You’d Rather Fly, and learn more about the book and Amy’s other ministries. You will also find her devotional work at Words of Hope.
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