But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy. – James 3:17 (NASB)
So, teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom. – Psalm 90:12 (NASB)
True wisdom is not only about perceiving reality rightly. It’s about living rightly before God. James 3:17 reminds us that heavenly wisdom bears a distinctive character. It isn’t proud, harsh, or self-seeking, but pure, gentle, and reasonable. Wisdom from above is marked by humility and grace, reflecting the heart of Christ. It isn’t measured by how smart we are or clever reasoning but by the fruit it produces in our relationships and behavior.
Psalm 90:12 adds another dimension: the wisdom of perspective. Moses’ prayer teaches that wisdom begins when we remember how fleeting our days are. When we “number our days” we learn to live purposefully, treasuring time to be invested in what is eternal, rather than always focusing on ourselves and worldly things that won’t last. This kind of wisdom grounds us in reverence, helping us live each moment as a gift and an opportunity to honor God.
Together, these passages reveal that godly wisdom is heavenly in character and earthly in practice. It shapes how we think and how we love, serve, and endure the challenges we face in life. It teaches us to value what truly matters, to seek peace over pride, and to measure success by faithfulness over material gain.
To gain a heart of wisdom we have to align our hearts with God’s eternal perspective and our actions with His holy character. When we live in this posture – humbled, teachable, and aware of life’s brevity – we reflect the light of divine wisdom in a world that’s still searching for what money, power, and intellect can never buy.