James exhorted. . .
“(17) But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17 ESV)
The wisdom of the world pulls us one way and then another. It is often based on outward appearances and judgment that is faulty. It honors some while devaluing others. Worldly wisdom pays more attention to those from whom one can gain advantages for self, calculating who rubbing elbows with might benefit “me” rather than seeking what benefit one’s own life could bring to another. James had discussed this favoritism or partiality earlier in his letter (James 2:1-9), noting such differentiation of people makes us “judges with evil thoughts”. (James 2:4) It is evil because it is not motivated by the kind of heart God desires us to possess. Such a perspective is not even in accordance with the way He views us.
Impartiality toward others has been given as viewing others in an undistinguishing or undifferentiating manner. Godly wisdom does not view others and judge merely based on outward appearances. It does not lead to siding with the rich and the popular while slighting the poor and outcast. We are not to view others from such a worldly or fleshly point of view. (2 Corinthians 5:16a) Even viewing Christ in such a manner leads the perspective into error. (2 Corinthians 5:16b) The wisdom from above helps us to view others not from a fleshly standpoint, but instead from a spiritual perspective.
God loved us and sent His Son not because we deserved it, but because we were in need of redemption from our sins. All mankind is in the same boat and justified by the same means in Christ. (Romans 3:22-24) The wisdom from Heaven should cause us to always see souls in need of Christ’s redemption. We should also remember how in Christ we have been provided opportunity to experience unity regardless of background. (note Galatians 3:28)
The love of God in our life is to be evident through acts of kindness and goodwill toward others, regardless of their stature in life. We are to aim to exhibit the same servant heart our Lord modeled as He interacted with people in varying circumstances and societal levels.
Paul exhorted toward a proper perspective where we read. . .
“(3) Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. (4) Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 ESV)
May we seek God’s Wisdom so that our eyes will be open to seeing others as He does. Let us maintain a heart of humility as we consider the value of all souls around us. The wisdom from above has declared that greatness is in a willingness to serve (Matthew 23:11; Luke 22:26) and all such action should be exercised to the glory of God!
Have a great day MAINTAINING A SPIRITUAL PERSPECTIVE OF OTHERS!
Carl
