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)
Worldly wisdom says you must play the world’s games to get by or ahead. It also implies a good front, or appearances, is all you need to be mindful of. Go ahead and put on an act, for the end justifies the means. And deceptive scheming is often behind the disguise of seemingly genuine interest.
Wisdom from above refuses to wear the masks of the world. The literal meaning of the Greek word translated “sincere” in the text is “not hypocritical.” It’s not just an act. It’s not just the playing of a part. There are no ulterior motives. No hidden agenda. No deception. No put on. What you see is what you get. It is honest through and through; a wisdom whose actions begin in the depths of a heart genuinely seeking what is good for and needed by others.
The wisdom from above is revealed in a genuineness to serve the purposes of God in all earthly interaction. Note Paul’s focus for life as expressed to Christians at Corinth where we read. . .
“(12) For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience, that we behaved in the world with simplicity and godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God, and supremely so toward you.” (2 Corinthians 1:12 ESV)
With “godly sincerity”. That is the sincerity that arises when we depend upon the wisdom from above. May that continue to be the mark of our life as we keep our life open to being used by God to touch the lives of others.
Have a great day LIVING A LIFE OF GENUINE GODLINESS!
Carl
