True Wisdom Comes From God

In one paragraph

Pastor Ray preached from James 3:13-18 on the difference between the world's wisdom and the wisdom that comes from God. The central call was simple: if you need wisdom, don't look inward, look to God, because He is the source of wisdom that actually produces good fruit. James puts it plainly, and Pastor Ray walked the congregation through what that wisdom looks like in practice. The message opened...

Read together

1. Ephesians (specific verse unclear) read aloud before offering: 'I also pray that you understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him at the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms.'
2. James 3:1 referenced as the source of 'not many of you should be teachers'
3. James 3:13-18 the main preaching text on true wisdom from God versus worldly wisdom
4. Proverbs 4:7 quoted twice: 'getting wisdom is the wisest thing that you can do. And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.'
5. 1 Corinthians (specific verse unclear) quoted to illustrate willingness to yield: 'love doesn't insist on its own way'
6. Matthew 9:13 Jesus quoted: 'I desire mercy not sacrifice,' used to illustrate mercy over judgment

Talk about it

1. Pastor Ray described wisdom as 'applied knowledge' rather than just what you know in your head. What is an example from your own life where you knew the right thing but struggled to actually do it?
2. Pastor Ray said humility is 'a work of the Lord' and that our human nature fights against it with all its might. Where do you feel that fight most in your daily life, and what does it look like when you lose it?
3. James lists several marks of wisdom from above, including being willing to yield to others and full of mercy. Which one of those marks is hardest for you personally, and why do you think that is?
4. Pastor Ray pointed to Jesus in the Garden, who said He could have called thousands of angels but chose not to, as the clearest example of humble, reserved strength. How does that picture of Jesus change the way you think about strength in your own conflicts?
5. Pastor Ray closed by asking, 'Who have you been consulting for your wisdom?' and said his own default is to consult himself. When you are facing a big decision, what does it actually look like in practice to seek wisdom from God rather than starting with yourself?