Mental Gymnastics

Body By James, part 6

 

James 3:13-18 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.  Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

 

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30

 

Pride only breeds quarrels.  Proverbs. 13:10

 

He that is of a proud heart stirs up strife.  Proverbs. 28:25 

 

True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life. Proverbs. 22:4

 

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. James 4:10 

 

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

 

1. Admit I need God’s wisdom

 

Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair,  and you will find the right way to go. Proverbs 2:9

 

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5

 

Above all and before all, do this: Get Wisdom! Write this at the top of your list: Get Understanding!
 Throw your arms around her—believe me, you won't regret it; never let her go—she'll make your life glorious. Proverbs 4:7

 

2. Recognize past choices connect to current realities

 

If you live a life guided by wisdom, you won't limp or stumble as you run Proverbs 4:12

 

3. Move beyond asking “is it wrong?” to “Is it wise?”

 

He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but he who walks wisely will be delivered Proverbs 28:26

 

The wise see danger ahead and avoid it, but fools keep going and get into trouble

Proverbs 27:12

 

4. Trust Jesus to redeem my reality

 

Finally, I confessed all my sins to You and stopped trying to hide them.  I said to myself, ‘I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.”  And you forgave me!  All my guilt is gone.  Psalm 32:5