Aligning Our Values: Wisdom from Above vs. Worldly Wealth
Summary
In this sermon, I discussed the wisdom of the world versus the wisdom from above, particularly in relation to wealth and riches. I emphasized the need to correct our lens through which we view the world to align more with how Jesus sees it. I highlighted the dangers of idolizing the rich and the importance of recognizing the wisdom from above. I also stressed the importance of living for eternity, prioritizing the values of God's kingdom over worldly wealth and comfort. I urged the congregation to be aware of the injustices around them and to use their voices to speak up against them, all while living in anticipation of Christ's return.
Key Takeaways:
- Stop idolizing the rich and instead look to the faithful and those serving in the church as examples [ 01:03:05]
- God hears the cries of the downcast and oppressed, so take comfort in that and cry out to Him [ 01:04:36]
- Be able to distinguish between the world's wisdom and the wisdom from above [ 01:05:18]
- Live for eternity, prioritizing God's kingdom and values over worldly wealth and comfort [ 01:06:41]
- Use your voice to speak up against injustices and live in anticipation of Christ's return [ 01:08:07]
Study Guide
Bible Reading:
1. James 5:1-6 [31:44]
2. James 3:13-18 [32:28]
3. Proverbs 30:8-9 [01:08:07]
Observation Questions:
1. In James 5:1-6, what does James say about the rich and their actions?
2. How does James 3:13-18 describe the difference between worldly wisdom and wisdom from above?
3. What does Proverbs 30:8-9 say about wealth and poverty?
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does James 5:1-6 challenge the world's view of wealth and success?
2. What does James 3:13-18 suggest about the characteristics of a person who is wise in God's eyes?
3. How does Proverbs 30:8-9 relate to the idea of contentment and reliance on God?
Application Questions:
1. How can you challenge the idolization of wealth and success in your own life?
2. What is one way you can demonstrate the "wisdom from above" as described in James 3:13-18 in your interactions this week?
3. Can you identify a situation where you've been influenced by the world's wisdom rather than God's wisdom? How can you respond differently in the future?
4. How does your spending reflect your values and priorities? Are there changes you need to make to align more with God's kingdom?
5. How can you be a voice for the voiceless and stand up against injustice in your community?
Devotional
Day 1: Stop Idolizing the Rich
We often look up to the wealthy as examples, even spiritual leaders. However, James reminds us to look to the people of faith, those who serve selflessly because of their love for Jesus. These are the true examples we should follow, not those who have amassed worldly wealth. [01:03:05]
Proverbs 11:28 - "Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf."
Reflection: How can you shift your focus from idolizing wealth to appreciating the spiritual richness in others?
Day 2: God Hears the Cry of the Downcast
In a world that often centers the wealthy, we must remember that God hears the cries of the oppressed and the poor. When living in a system of oppression, it can be comforting to know that God hears your cries. [01:04:36]
Psalm 34:18 - "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Reflection: How can you lend your voice to the cries of the oppressed and marginalized in your community?
Day 3: Discerning Worldly Wisdom from Godly Wisdom
We must train ourselves to spot the differences between the world's wisdom and the wisdom from above. The world's wisdom, even when it appears good, can lead us astray. We must seek the wisdom that is peaceful, gentle, and open to reason. [01:05:18]
James 3:17 - "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."
Reflection: What steps can you take to discern worldly wisdom from Godly wisdom in your daily life?
Day 4: Living for Eternity
We live in an in-between time, waiting for the return of Christ. While we can work to make things better now, we must remember that only Christ can create a perfect system. We should live for His kingdom and put His values first. [01:06:41]
Colossians 3:2 - "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Reflection: How can you shift your priorities to align more with God's kingdom rather than the world?
Day 5: Advocating for Love and Justice
As followers of Christ, we are called to be a community of love, a beacon of light to the surrounding area. We should speak up against injustice and give a voice to the voiceless, reflecting the impact of Christ in our lives. [01:08:07]
Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Reflection: How can you use your influence to advocate for love and justice in your community?
Quotes
1. "There's a lot of things that are trying to influence and give wisdom and kind of give the world's ideas on what success looks like and you see things and articles that really kind of put the rich on a pedestal." - 26:56
2. "The wisdom from above is first pure then Peaceable gentle open to reason full of mercy and good fruits impartial and sincere and a harvest of righteousness is sown in Peace by those who make peace." - 33:40
3. "Whenever we look out in the media or on social media we see all these examples and it looks like these people are getting ahead and it looks like man these folks really have life figured out and maybe if I just took Warren Buffett's wisdom or whatever then I could have it figured out too." - 45:23
4. "This wisdom from the world can penetrate in our system and James wants to correct it right away he says come now you rich weep and how for the miseries that are coming upon you." - 45:59
5. "The world says accumulation is normal and wise. James though says accumulation is evil and foolish." - 46:39
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