The Gentleness of Wisdom

Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.

But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth.

This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic.

For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.

And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. 

James 2:13-18

We all think we are smart, but this scripture warns us to consider our motives when we are trying to get things done.  The question is:  Are we working for our own gain or are working to best serve the needs of others?   

This is not to say, that we are not to consider our own needs, but to consider if our wants and desires are detrimental to other people.  Sometimes it is a matter of how we go about getting things done.

That being said, we are to strive to be peaceable, gentle, reasonable and show mercy to foster a spirit of peace in our actions. 

In this way, we further the work of the Gospel by making peace.