WHAT SHOULD I DO TO RECEIVE HEAVENLY WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING?

SCRIPTURE:
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it 
by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 
(James 3:13)

MEDITATION:
Did you notice how the scriptures include a prerequisite for,
and indicators of the presence of heavenly wisdom and understanding?
We are shown that heavenly gifts are rewards for humility.

Why are good deeds a byproduct of humility?
Doesn’t it make sense that whenever we are given heavenly wisdom and 
understanding, then we become more confident and our self-esteem improves?
With confidence and a higher self-esteem, 
we no longer feel the need to build ourselves up in the eyes of others.

Instead, we become focused on good deeds 
that are pleasing to God and beneficial to others.
Good deeds includes showing concern for, and encouraging others.
Our focus shifts from internal to external as we look for opportunities 
to lift the spirits of others, instead of trying to promote ourselves 
and prove that we are worthy of respect.
When we do what God expects of us, 
we no longer feed off the compliments of man.

We are also given indicators of the type of wisdom that is not from God.
Earthly wisdom manifests itself through envy and selfish (internal) ambition.
Of course ambition is not a bad thing, 
unless it is filled with a selfish desire to feed and increase our ego. 
The scriptures tell us that we should not be in denial of our pursuit of 
earthly wisdom, nor should we boast about our supposed superiority over others. 
But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, 
do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come 
down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you
have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil 
practice. (James 3:14-16)

Lastly, we are given additional indicators of the presence of Godly wisdom.
It is pure (not contaminated with the things of the world), 
peace-loving (not quarrelsome, trouble makers, or gossipers), 
considerate (considers others ahead of ourselves), 
submissive (obedient to the Lord), 
full of mercy (sincere compassion for others) 
and good fruit (our words and actions reflect our commitment to the Lord), 
impartial (do not show favoritism, which is a key characteristic of God), 
and sincere (honest in all things).
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. 
(James 3:17)

We are given one more indicator listed separately from the others, 
(maybe to emphasize its importance)?
We were previously told that we should not cause problems, 
and now we are given the alternative (a “do” to replace the “don’t”); 
we should strive for peace with others (and probably ourselves as well).
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. (James 3:18)

ACTION:
The scriptures have given you the requirements and indicators 
for heavenly wisdom and understanding - are you up for the challenges?
Or, would you prefer to continue pursuit of an earthly wisdom
that is unfulfilling, never-ending, and negatively affects others?

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for clarifying the differences between 
earthly wisdom and the wisdom and understanding that comes from 
heaven. Forgive me if I have been focused on the wrong type of wisdom 
and help me to take Your instructions to heart, as I develop a new desire
for the right type of wisdom and understanding. I know that when I pursue
a heavenly wisdom and understanding, my life will become more fulfilling, 
my self-esteem and confidence will increase, and I will have a positive 
impact on others. Thank You for Your impartiality that assures me that 
heavenly wisdom is not just for a select group, but for everyone, 
including me!”