Introductory Thoughts
The Bible mentions two types of wisdom: worldly wisdom (1 Corinthians 3:19) and godly wisdom (James 1:5). These distinct wisdoms oppose each other in several aspects including their relationship to hypocrisy. Man claims to live wisely and yet encourages something that counteracts true wisdom—hypocrisy. This is because God’s wisdom operates only when hypocrisy is absent. At first, this might seem quite difficult to achieve, yet righteousness is never accomplished through sinful means. The only way to demonstrate true wisdom is to do so with purity and mercy void of partiality and hypocrisy.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): A friend tells you he plans to get even with a child who broke his toy. Because you also do not like this child, you choose to say and do nothing. However, godly wisdom always chooses Gods word over how we feel. Consider these scriptures (Ephesians 4:32; Romans 12:17a). What should be said or done to this child?
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(For everyone): What should a person say when asked for his opinion concerning something sinful? Should he remain silent? Should he avoid offending the person asking the question? Should he rather choose to utter all his mind?
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What kind of wisdom are you manifesting? Does hypocrisy exist in your wisdom?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God for godly wisdom.
- Ask God to teach you more about wisdom and hypocrisy.
Song
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
