We’re excited today for devotions by Becky Ferguson. Becky is a missionary in the Czech Republic and she works primarily with young people. In the summer of 2024, some young people from LSA are hoping to join her in the Czech Republic at a youth camp.
James 3:13-18 NLT
“If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. 16 For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.
17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favouritism and is always sincere. 18 And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.”
In my NLT Bible, the heading for these verses is ‘True Wisdom Comes from God’. That, I believe, is undeniable. We can read books, take classes, and talk to experts about any subject, but ultimately, true wisdom is gained from our Father in heaven. With the current state of our world today, we need His wisdom now more than ever.
To me, it feels like everyone across the globe is arguing, debating, one-upping each other, and lashing out. I see it in the news, on social media, and in daily life. Everyone is fighting – politicians, scientists, militaries, talk show hosts, and Christians. Wars are being fought. Countries are being attacked. Innocent people are being killed. We are all facing fear, confusion, isolation, anger and illness (both mental and physical). But what are we doing about it?
Verse 13 says we show our understanding of God’s ways in how we live. So, how are we living right now? Are we living selfishly? Jealously? Are we spreading lies and propagating the ‘fake news’? Or are we offering hope, compassion, and patience?
I understand the many emotions people are feeling these days. I feel them too, especially living alone in a foreign country while our world is in chaos. However, each time I’m tempted to get angry, or wallow in self-pity, or when I feel completely helpless, I ask God for help. I ask for wisdom in how to respond to the chaos that is happening around the world.
When I was young, it was popular for Christians to wear bracelets with WWJD – ‘What would Jesus do?’ I never had one, and they are much less common now, but it’s a question I still ask regularly.
What would Jesus do? Would He get angry and march in protests, demanding changes and fighting against those with different opinions? Would He scream His opinions and not listen to anyone else? Would he judge and shun those who saw things differently? Would He hide away from the craziness and do whatever He could to protect Himself?
No. He would not do any of that. He would respond in love. He would respond in compassion. He would listen. He would be firm, but gentle. He would speak Truth, but not demean or humiliate. And He would help.
How do we, as Christ followers, help in these uncertain and concerning times? No, we can’t go to worn-torn countries and give soldiers food or mend the injuries of the wounded. But we can pray. Prayer is the most powerful thing we can do in times of war and destruction.
We can help refugees who are fleeing their countries and coming to ours for safety. We can buy groceries, donate furniture, help them learn English, and offer friendship. The Czech Republic took in hundreds of thousands of refugees when the war began in Ukraine. Nearly 2 years later many remain here as the attack on their home country continues.
I am part of the leadership team at a Ukrainian Youth group in Prague. I can’t begin to imagine what they are going through, have been through, and the trauma they face. But I can love them. I can help them feel safe here. I, along with my colleagues, can offer fun and friendship, and a listening ear when needed.
Are we truly seeking God’s wisdom during this tumultuous time, or are we giving in to the world around us? Verse 17 says wisdom from above is pure, loving, peace-keeping, gentle and merciful. Are we loving our neighbours as Jesus commanded us? Are we being gentle to those we disagree with? Are we doing our part to bring peace, and to protect those around us?
True wisdom comes from God. Let us not forget that. Always seek Him first. Let Him be your guidance and your way. Bring love. Bring peace.
“And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:18, NLT
Our song for today is Kindness by Steven Curtis Chapman.