For observers, the most important question should be: "What is the basic reason for the decision? Is it that it is in the best interest of the people it will affect? Or, is it in the best interest of the people who will make a large profit from the implementation of the decision?" As an example, the military personnel in Iraq have needs. The Pentagon awards contracts to businesses to fill those requested needs. Some suppliers are accused of inflating prices or providing substandard products. While those who supply high quality products at a reasonable price are acting on the wisdom from above, those whose only interest is in the dollars they can amass use the wisdom that James calls, earthly or demonic. An even better example of the wisdom from above would be the communities who hear of a need for a product because a person from there is serving in Iraq. The community or church or families gather the supplies either through purchase or donations and ship the supplies to that member of the armed services for him or her to distribute. That is the wisdom from above because these folks are even paying to respond to a need.

James makes it very plain. 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.

James also tells us 14 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.

Can you see how these definitions fit with the examples from Iraq, or the decisions to move manufacturing and service jobs to countries where wages are low, or decisions to make legal some laws that actually take advantage of many for the benefit of the few? Yes, this even happens in the church.

We must also face this on a personal level. Do I make decisions based on what is best for me? If so, I use the wisdom of the world and may profit greatly, but in the end lose my very soul. Do I make decisions based on what God wants me to do even if it is not what I think would be the best for me? If so, the profit I will find is peace and contentment and hearing my Lord say, "Well done thy good and faithful servant; come and enter My Father’s House of many mansions."

WE PRAY. Heavenly Father, so often the decisions I must make are so hard. They are the hardest when the world shouts out that I should do it this way and at the same time I hear the quiet voice of your love inviting me to do it your way. Send your Holy Spirit upon me that I may have the Wisdom, Strength and Power to seek and follow your wisdom. AMEN.

A SUGGESTION FOR LIVING THE DEVOTION

We sometimes worry about the big decisions and don’t bother about the small ones. These are decisions we make every day and don’t think about. Consider why you have made these decisions. As an example, is there someone that you walk past on the street, or are with on public transportation, or waits on you in a store or a café, or attends your church, that you have never spoken to other than what your business need requires, and you have never given your name or asked theirs? Why do you know nothing about this person whom you see so often? Is that your choice? Is that God’s choice?