Studying the book of Daniel, I’ve also considered New Testament writers who likely learned from Daniel and other prophets as part of their Jewish upbringing. Thinking of Daniel’s devotion to God even in tough circumstances, and the supernatural wisdom God gave him, led me to James 3:13-17:
“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”
Daniel was expected to acquire Babylonian wisdom, and apparently did so, since he achieved status with several kings. That wisdom wasn’t all bad—scholars believe Babylonian scholars were knowledgeable astronomers, and accomplishments like the Hanging Gardens indicate there were some good architects on the team. But Daniel drew the line at compromising God’s commands.
James’ early readers likely included farmers, business owners and others who possessed skill and knowledge, but his letter indicates there is more: Godly wisdom would manifest in humility, recognizing that we’re not God and don’t know it all, and would produce kind, orderly and moral behavior.
Notice the opposites listed, though: Bitter jealousy, selfish ambition, disorder and evil. The words translated “wise” and “wisdom” in James’ letter are Greek words alluding to skill and learning, but it’s possible to seek those things from entirely different sources! One comes “from above,” as the Holy Spirit enables us to absorb spiritual truths; the other is “earthly, unspiritual, demonic.”
Like Daniel, we can grow in practical knowledge without compromising God’s commands. Discernment is key, and the difference will be obvious from the fruit.
A recent Globe article featured a local ministry team’s involvement in some key fossil finds. Creationists start with God’s Word, and discoveries like those fossils show that the science fits. This type of wisdom leads to useful information and to awe at God’s creative power. On the other hand, rejecting God’s Word, seeking “wisdom” from human opinion, leads to confusion and has no foundation.
Failure to accept God’s Word as written has, sadly, infiltrated the modern church. Some so-called faith leaders try to explain away God’s clear commands as outdated or limited in context. Some focus on Jesus’ love, but ignore His many references to God’s justice and standards for righteousness. It’s worth asking, does my church teach people to obey God’s commands and grow in humility and mercy? Or does it value human wisdom over God, elevating “tolerance” and failing to call out evil for what it is?
The fruit of “earthly wisdom” is seen in horrific scenarios like last week, as people who purport to know what is best for our nation celebrated the ending of innocent human lives. Maybe they have a string of college degrees, but much of their wisdom is “earthly, unspiritual and demonic,” shaking our nation’s foundations of freedom.
Christians in the marketplace and government have a responsibility. We can use practical wisdom like mathematics, technology, or language arts as tools from God, to be used for His purposes, while drawing the line, as Daniel did, at compromising his commands. It gets scary when the lines get blurred, but an honest look at the fruit will help clear things up.
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