James 3:17 says, “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” True wisdom, God’s wisdom, comes to us with these attributes. We can test all counsel and advice against these characteristics to ascertain whether the advice is true godly wisdom.
Godly wisdom will have no self-interest but will have our interests in mind. True wisdom leads to peaceful impact rather than quarreling. Godly counsel will come with a spirit of gentleness, not harshness. Godly advice is reasonable, not outlandish. True wisdom will demonstrate mercy and produce good fruits. Wisdom from above does not favor one person above another and is sincerely given with good intentions.
Reluctant Retiree 