James 3:13-18

v13: True wisdom is not just being “very knowledgeable.” It is being able “to rightly apply and use” this knowledge. “Those who think well or talk well are not considered wise according to Scripture unless they also live and act well.”

v14-16: “Envy and wisdom… cannot dwell together in the same heart.” As one sin leads to another, so envy stirs up selfish ambition, which leads to all kinds of evil practices.

v17-18: “True wisdom is God’s gift.” This wisdom is pure “free from sin… seeking holiness in both heart and life.” It is peace-loving, doing what can be done “to keep the peace so that it may not be broken, and to make peace so that where it has been lost it may be restored.” It is gentle, “not saying or doing anything harsh.” It is compliant, submitting “to the convictions of God’s word and to all just and reasonable words of advice.” It is full of mercy and good fruits, “both to relieve those in need and to forgive those who offend.” It is unwavering, “harbouring no undue suspicions and making no distinctions between our behaviour toward one person and our behaviour toward another.” It is without pretence, having “no disguises or deceits.”