Wisdom from Above

13 Who among you is wise and understanding? (A)Let him show by his (B)good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter (C)jealousy and [a]selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against (D)the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down (E)from above, but is (F)earthly, [b](G)natural, (H)demonic. 16 For where (I)jealousy and [c]selfish ambition exist, [d]there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom (J)from above is first (K)pure, then (L)peace-loving, (M)gentle, [e]reasonable, (N)full of mercy and good fruits, [f](O)impartial, free of (P)hypocrisy. 18 And the (Q)fruit of righteousness is sown in peace [g]by those who make peace.

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Footnotes

  1. James 3:14 Or strife
  2. James 3:15 Or unspiritual
  3. James 3:16 Or strife
  4. James 3:16 I.e., in that place
  5. James 3:17 Or willing to yield
  6. James 3:17 Or unwavering
  7. James 3:18 Or for

Live Wisely

13 Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his noble conduct that his actions are done humbly and wisely. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and rivalry in your hearts, stop boasting and slandering the truth. 15 That kind of wisdom does not come from above. No, it is worldly, self-centered, and demonic. 16 For wherever jealousy and rivalry exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil.

17 However, the wisdom that comes from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, willing to yield, full of compassion and good deeds,[a] and without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. 18 And a harvest of righteousness is grown from the seed of peace[b] planted by peacemakers.

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Footnotes

  1. James 3:17 Lit. fruit
  2. James 3:18 Lit. is grown in peace