¹³Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. ¹⁴But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. ¹⁵This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ¹⁶For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. ¹⁷But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. ¹⁸And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. (James 3:13-18)

1. If I am wise, I will not compromise my

.

But the wisdom from above is first pure… (James 3:17)

2. If I am wise, I will not antagonize your

.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable… (James 3:17)

3. If I am wise, I won’t be

in my language.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle… (James 3:17)

4. If I am wise, I won’t

your suggestions.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason… (James 3:17)

5. If I am wise, I won’t emphasize your

.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy… (James 3:17)

6. If I am wise, I won’t ignore your

.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits… (James 3:17)

7. If I am wise, I won’t play favorites or

.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. (James 3:17)

You will never succeed in life if you try to hide your sins. Confess them and give them up; then God will show mercy to you. (Proverbs 28:13, GN)

Main point: Following God’s

makes our relationships better.