In the Meekness of Wisdom

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. James 3:13 (nkjv)

I have known many wise and understanding people in my lifetime. When I think of the wisest of all, of course I think of Jesus Christ, my Savior. Then I think of my mother-in-law, Emma Lou Akin. She was such a wise and gentle woman. Her meekness and strength were qualities that were acquired through many days and years spent on her knees in prayer. She was godly in so many ways because of her relationship with Jesus! Her meekness was found within this relationship.

These kinds of qualities come only from Him. Stubborn pride and self-centeredness will be replaced with meekness, gentleness, and self-control. In our efforts to become knowledgeable and wise we can forget that the wisest thing we can do is lean on and trust in the wise man we know to be our Savior, Jesus Christ.

In Matthew 11:29 Jesus used the words gentle and humble to describe Himself. This verse says, “Take up My yoke and learn from Me, because I am gentle and humble in heart” (hcsb). I know there are days when I cannot say this about myself. What about you?

When we stop and think about how valuable our quiet times alone in prayer with our Lord are and how important it is to know His Word, then why would we skip this wonderful and cherished time? Our wisdom, meekness, and strength have to come from Jesus, because without Him we do not possess any of these traits. We are sinners and any goodness we have comes from our saving relationship with Jesus. This verse in James is telling us that if we are wise and understanding then our lives will show it. You will be known among men for your works done in the wisdom of meekness.

In his commentary Faith That Works, Dr. Jimmy Draper says this: “Meekness is controlled power, energy harnessed for the glory of God. Our meekness glorifies the Lord! Our gentle, meek attitude is a characteristic from the Lord for His glory.”[i]

Dear heavenly Father, I pray for wisdom and understanding that comes from You alone. Create in me a meek and gentle spirit for Your glory. Amen.