James 3:13 "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."

In the first twelve verses of chapter three, James writes emphasizing the importance of keeping the tongue under control, lamenting it frequent misuse. "...no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison (James 3:8)." Then in verse thirteen: "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show..." Why speak? Show.

When I think of a person who is wise, I think of someone with experience, not one with mere knowledge. A wise man will not flaunt his experiences nor does he feel the need to loudly assert his opinions on others. He uses discretion when making decisions. The book of Proverbs has a lot to say about a wise man and the tongue. "When words are many sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise (Proverbs 10:19)." And again, "A prudent  man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart of fools blurts out folly (Proverbs 12:23)."

James himself emphasizes in the beginning of his letter, "...Everyone should become quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow go become angry (James 1:19)." Words are not needed to show true wisdom, it is shown by lifestyle. There is power in a person who leads by his example, by doing over saying, letter his actions prove his wisdom rather than letting his words destroy it.

True wisdom will prove itself. "Let him show by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." Humility is the fruit that comes from wisdom. Humility does not seek it's own good, but the good of others. Therefore a wise man's words will not be said to build himself up or accomplish his own agenda. His words will not need to be many. The truly wise man will prove his wisdom by his life lived in humiltiy and service.

Today i will ask God for his wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt... (James 1:5-6)." I will strive today for humility in conversation, seeking to build others up with my words instead of using them to accomplish my own selfish agenda