We all want to be like Solomon, that is, acting with great wisdom in all circumstances. When the two women fought over whose baby it was, he made a plan that some would probably say was actually stupid.

How can one suggest that a child should be cut in two? Yes, the proposal doesn’t seem too good, but the wisdom comes in when you know that the real mother would rather surrender the child than have it killed, right?

This wisdom does not just slip in by the back door. If you did not receive it from God in one package like Solomon, you must make James’ suggestions part of your life one by one.

You must make sure that you never do things with ulterior motives. You must pursue peace everywhere. You must always be kind, even if someone kicks you in the teeth – not an easy one! And then you have to be reasonable.

The Greek word for amenable does not appear anywhere else in the Bible, which is why we have to use a series of words to get to the whole meaning.

It also means to be “considerate”. It’s someone whose eyes are open to the people around him and who is not only focused on himself. Such a person is actually looking for places where he can add value, even if he first has to put away a piece of himself to make room for new insights.

A wise person is easily persuaded. But this is not someone who is blown back and forth by the wind. No, such a person is not afraid to change their position for the truth, for the right things.

We are often so caught up in our own values and beliefs that there is no room to be convinced of something closer to the truth. Wise people don’t take themselves too seriously and admit they don’t always know everything.

To a large extent, wise people are teachable and want to know more. They are adaptable and would like to change positions because they know they don’t know everything. Just to help others.

Paul is an excellent example for us in this. When he worked and talked with the Jews, he became like a Jew. When he worked with the poor people, he entered their world. All for the sake of the Kingdom of God.

Let us also be open to walking closer to the truth. Let us adapt and leave space for others who may think and do differently. Let’s be considerate and sometimes sacrifice our comfort for the sake of others!

¹⁷Real 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.

Scripture
James 3:17-18

Reflection
Where are you holding on too firmly?
Where do you need to make space for change?
Who should you reach out to to help them?

Prayer
Lord, it is not easy to give up comfort. Actually, I just want to stay where I am and not leave my comfort zone. Help me to be more flexible and make room for others. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.