No one likes someone who is all talk but no action. It’s true in the workplace and on the playing field. You either put up or shut up. The same can be said for those who follow Christ. There are some who want to give the impression they are wise when, in reality, they say it, but they don’t show it. James says to practice what you preach.
James 3:17
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.”
Speak Softly
James is very clear when he says wisdom is shown, not spoken. Lots of people love to quote wise sayings but do not show the wisdom in their own life. They desire to tell others how to live but don’t want to emulate it themselves. A truly wise person is someone who speaks softly but lives loudly. Their actions scream much louder than their words.
Live Out Loud
Wisdom has pure motives and intentions towards the people they encounter and then shows peace, gentleness, and reason in their dealings with them. If someone blows it, they extend mercy even before they are asked. These are all actions that are shown but come from somewhere much deeper. This is Godly wisdom that has been given from above, and it has penetrated every fiber of our being.
Practice What You Preach
Wisdom can only exist with the old man has been conquered. That happens when the atoning work of the cross has changed us from the inside out. Add to that the fruit of the Spirit is becoming evident, and you have the foundation for where wisdom can prosper. That makes us unwavering in our resolve and without hypocrisy. No one wants to hear from a person who spouts wisdom but doesn’t practice it.