Pastor Steve's Sermon Notes
October 20, 2002

The Book of James gives some practical advice about getting along with others. James 3:18 is the key to learning how to relate wisely to others—how to have peaceful relationships: “And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness.”

How can I know if I'm wise in how I relate toward people? This morning, we're going to take a wisdom test. We're going to test your wisdom—see how wise you really are. James, in verse 17, lists the characteristics of wise people: “But wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure, then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

IF I AM WISE…

I Will Not Compromise My Integrity.

“But wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure…” “The man of integrity walks securely.” (Proverbs 10:9)

I Will Not Antagonize Your Anger.

“…then peace loving…” I won't make you angry. Wise people work at maintaining harmony. They're not always looking for a fight. Proverbs 20:3 says, “Any fool can start arguments. The wise thing is to stay out of them.” What causes arguments?

Three Things That Causes Arguments (things to avoid):

* Comparing

* Condemning

* Contradicting

“A wise man controls his temper. He knows that anger causes mistakes.” (Proverbs 14:29)

I Will Not Minimize Your Feelings.

“…considerate…” Considerate means “mindful of the feelings of others.” “Kind words bring life, but cruel words crush your spirit.” (Proverbs 15:4)

I Will Not Criticize Your Decisions/Suggestions.

“…submissive…” This word is used only one time in the New Testament. It means “being reasonable, willing to listen, willing to be open to ideas and suggestions.” “A fool thinks he needs no advice. A wise man listens to others.” (Proverbs 12:15)

I Will Not Emphasize Your Mistakes.

"...full of mercy and good fruit…” Do you keep hounding people about their past mistakes? Do you give them what they need, not what they deserve? “Love forgets mistakes. Nagging about them parts even the best of friends.” (Proverbs 17:9)

I Will Not Disguise My Own Weaknesses.

“…impartial and sincere.” These two words in Greek sound like our word “hypocrite” and that is where we get the word from. It means “without hypocrisy, straightforward, right on.” James says if you're smart and wise, you're not phony. You don't wear masks and try to be something you're not. Real wise people are honest and open. They're not phony. They're genuine, real and authentic. “You will never succeed in life if you try to hide your sins.” (Proverbs 28:13)