James 3:14-16 (AMP)
14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant, and [as a result] be in defiance of the truth. 15 This [superficial] wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly (secular), natural (unspiritual), even demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice
.
Jealousy and selfish ambition arise amongst us when we begin to compare ourselves with others. When we focus on self only then we give room for these things to take us captive. James tells us this is superficial wisdom and not wisdom that comes from above. How can one body work together in harmony when one part is bitterly jealous against another? Can you imagine if the hands were jealous and selfish refusing to work with the rest of the body because they thought they were more special? It would be disaster.
Jealousy and selfish ambition will always lead to disaster because they will open you up to every evil thing and moral degradation. I have seen people who allowed jealousy to control their life graduate to other evils just to cause harm to the people they feel jealous towards. Some have even resorted to murder because of this.
Godly wisdom is not allowing negative emotions and sensuality control your life. Instead of jealousy we are to consider others as better than ourselves. We are to replace selfishness by looking out for the good of others, setting an example sacrificial generosity just as out Lord set an example for us.
Life will present opportunities and challenges and sometimes it will not be easy to be kind or to consider others as being better than ourselves. It will cost us and many times it may not be the convenient way to take. Worldly wisdom will tell you to look out for yourself and take the easy way out. Godly wisdom will tell you to pay the price and do the godly thing. It’s a choice we all have to make every day, choose godly wisdom.
