I have found that the epistle of James is full of wisdom, instruction, and counsel, and it has cleaned my plow many times. I agree with Chris that most of the brothers and sisters on Sermon Index are seeking after truth, although there are frequent debates and disagreements. There is no one on this forum that has all the answers to all the questions that come up and the various discussions that take place. I have observed that very often even those with opposing views can both be right and both be wrong to a certain extent. It is not just a matter of being doctrinally correct about every dot and title, but our heart attitude and motives are being exposed by the Lord.
How many times over the past 50 years that I thought I pretty much had all the knowledge that I needed to live a victorious Christian life and to help others, only to be humbled by the Lord. It is so much better to take the low place of humility, and allow the Lord to do the exalting. It is not the Will of the Lord for us to always feel that we are the one to bring correction. The Holy Spirit is an excellent teacher, and sometimes the Lord would have us to pray for the one that is erring in any way.
I would like to share a few scriptures that I believe would be helpful to all of us to walk in the wisdom of the Lord, speaking the truth in love, and building up the Body of Christ, being fully aware of the tactics and strategy of the enemy to bring strife and division among the brethren.
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
“It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God.” (1 Corinthians 1:30A)
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5)
“Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him by his good conduct show his [good] deeds with the gentleness and humility of true wisdom.
But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth.
This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic.
For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing.
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 fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” (James 3:13-18)
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,” (James 1:19)
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Mike
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