James 3:17-18 (GNV)
17 But the wisdom that is from above, is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of [a] mercy and good fruits, without judging, and without hypocrisy. 18 [b] And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace, of them that make peace.
Footnotes:
[a] James 3:17 He setteth mercy against the fierce and cruel nature of man, and showeth that heavenly wisdom bringeth forth good fruits, for he that is heavenly wise, referreth all things to God’s glory, and the profit of his neighbor.
[b] James 3:18 Because the world persuadeth itself that they are miserable which live peaceably and simply, on the contrary side the Apostle pronounceth that they shall at the length reap the harvest of peaceable righteousness

James 3:17-18 (NIV)
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. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

James 3:17-18(MSG)
17-18 Real wisdom, God’s wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.

It doesn’t matter how the language has changed over the years, the message remains the same. The wisdom from heaven, from God, is pure. Think of the words of God as cleansing scrub, scrubbing bubbles, amazing POW! deep cleaning Oxyblah (I love anything Oxyblah), ready to clear out all the dead cells and infuse you with the vigorous, youthful, new, perfect wisdom of Christ, followed by peace, empathy, submissiveness, mercy, goodness, realness.

Pretty good qualities, especially when tied to the strength Christ gives us to be bold, unwavering light in a dark world – as long as the light is infused with the wisdom of Christ, as long as the light is Oxywhite, pure, from Him and from not us. Shamwow!

Let’s park on submissive for a second, because those that know me know submissive isn’t a bit I take willingly. However, there are times to submit, there are times to be humble, there are times to know that He is God and I’m not – like all the time. So I submit willingly and un-willingly, though not always. I’m still far from being like Christ. That’s my lifes work.

What’s the problem with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control? Wisdom? Mercy? Empathy? Proclivity to action for Him? Meekness? Who has a problem with Christ and His wisdom? Come, let’s discuss.