Wisdom from above

James 3:14-17
But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

Wisdom looks outward. Foolishness looks inward.
The wise man wins by losing, the fool loses by winning.
Wisdom begins with pure motives and a heart's desire set on God. Born out of this peace God has made with us is a peace to extend to others. And since He is in control, we do not have to strong-arm or manipulate others to make them conform, we can be gentle and sacrificial. Judgment is replaced by mercy because we know that only and ultimately God is judge. This is true in all circumstances for all people - so wisdom shows no partiality. Because this wisdom is for all time, there is no room for hypocrisy. This all begins wit ha heart focused on God and not on one's self.
So where is my heart focused? Are my motives pure, to please God? Have I made exceptions to where I practice wisdom? Is there anywhere that I am still acting the fool?

Lord, make me wise, gentle, merciful, sacrificial, peaceable, and loving. May you be honored and others edified by Your wisdom in me. Amen.