HEAVENLY WISDOM

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:17-18

Covid time is the time to sow peace, and harvest righteousness!  It is not the time to panic, argue, be angry, or complain.  But how do we discuss and make plans without conflict and being overwhelmed with emotion?

We do this with the radical wisdom from above. It is the opposite of the wisdom of today’s world which is not ‘open to reason’ but is antagonistic, confrontational, and forceful. Media and advertising have no patience to carefully present all the relevant facts and differing opinions. They demand immediate polarized actions. Unfortunately, Christians sometimes also demand the same.

Heavenly wisdom is characterized by peace, not conflict. It is applied with gentleness and mercy. Its purity comes from a life of holiness and obedience. It allows us to ask difficult challenging questions of people on both sides of an issues. It is ‘open to reason’.  Such openness requires time, patience and dialogue. The coronavirus issues are really no different from all the other issues in the church that often divide us: music styles, dress, food, format of  service and questionable activities.
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Along with others, I am trying to help believers remain focussed on sowing peace so that we can harvest righteousness.  Each day I see the importance of modelling the wisdom from above in every conversation, interaction and decision. Is it easy?  NO!  But it is essential.