James 3:14-15 NIV
"But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic."
"Motive Matters: Who Gets the Glory?"
I continually ask the Lord Jesus to guide and protect my heart against the enemy’s schemes as I strive to share the Gospel with the world. James 3:14-15 and Colossians 3:12-14 serve as reminders from God to keep my attitude in check and remain humble as He uses my life for His glory. It’s not about me. James warns against harboring bitter envy and selfish ambition, describing them as influences that are not from God but are earthly, unspiritual, and even demonic. This passage challenges Christians and disciples alike to examine their hearts and motivations, understanding that not all wisdom comes from above. True wisdom reflects God’s character and leads us to walk in humility, love, and righteousness.
The Bible consistently warns against envy and selfish ambition. In Proverbs 14:30, we read, “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” This highlights how destructive envy can be—not only spiritually but even physically. Similarly, Philippians 2:3 urges, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” True wisdom, according to Scripture, is characterized by humility, not by self-seeking desires.
James contrasts false wisdom with God’s wisdom in James 3:17, where he describes divine wisdom as “pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” This shows that wisdom from above brings unity, peace, and righteousness, unlike the earthly wisdom that breeds division and strife.
James 3:14-15 reminds us that our attitudes and motivations reveal the true source of our wisdom. If our hearts are driven by jealousy and self-promotion, we are operating from a wisdom that stands in opposition to God. Instead, we are called to seek the wisdom that comes from above—wisdom that reflects God’s character and produces peace, humility, and righteousness.
As I step into my calling as a writer, speaker, and ambassador of God’s Word, this remains my prayer: that my motives remain pure and aligned with His will. It’s not about me, my abilities, or my success. That’s why I’ve asked a few trusted friends to hold me accountable—to remind me, if ever needed, that I am simply a sinner saved by grace, entrusted with the privilege of representing Christ.
Take a moment to reflect today. Why do you do what you do? Who receives the glory—you or God?
