In James 3:13, the Bible teaches, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” This verse exhorts us to recognize and practice true wisdom – not in abstract knowledge or lofty words but in the way that we live and act, especially in humility. Wisdom, as defined, is more than just knowing what is right -it is applying that knowledge with discernment and justice in our actions.
Today, many people – politicians, business leaders, and even church leaders -project an image of wisdom. They claim to hold the keys to solving the world’s problems, advancing society, or guiding others spiritually. But is their wisdom evident in the fruit of their deeds? The Bible cautions us that the true test of wisdom is not in claims or appearances, but in results – in the fruit that one’s life and actions bear.
Judging by the Fruit
In Matthew 7:15-20, we are warned to discern true and false prophets by examining their fruits. “Every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.” This teaching emphasizes that appearances or mere words are insufficient indicators of goodness; actions are the ultimate proof. Just as a tree is judged by the fruit it produces, so too are individuals, institutions, and even nations. Deeds are the tangible manifestation of inner values, beliefs, and motivations. Thus, a person’s deeds will be a visible reflection of their true inner self – especially in times of stress and hardship when the outer veil of civility is removed. We are in a time in history where the stresses and hardships of the world will be revealing the inner nature of those in leadership roles, those around us, and even ourselves.
We live in a world where claims of wisdom and righteousness abound, but too often, these claims are not substantiated by actions. Governments may speak of justice, but do their policies reflect equity and care for the vulnerable? Business leaders may talk of corporate responsibility, but are their practices ethical and sustainable? Religious leaders may preach humility and compassion, but are their lives examples of those virtues?
The Bible’s instruction to judge by the fruit offers a clear metric: Good fruit reflects integrity, justice, and humility, while bad fruit reveals selfishness, dishonesty, and pride. This is an important challenge to each of us. We are called not only to observe others but to examine our own lives.
Reflecting on Our Own Fruit
Socrates is purported to have said “know thyself” and this is exactly what each of us must do in order to evaluate the true state of our being. What kind of fruit are we bearing in our own lives? Are we contributing to the betterment of those around us, or are we sowing seeds of division, greed, or pride? A life of wisdom, according to James, is marked by humility – understanding that wisdom itself is not something to be flaunted, but something that should drive us to serve others and act justly. This reminds me of a saying that I have always liked: “those who talk don’t know and those who know don’t talk”. This teaching reminds us that those who boast about their own “wisdom” are likely to not be very wise at all. Those that are truly wise carry it with a quiet grace and dignity and their wisdom is evidenced in their actions, not their words so much.
It is easy to get caught up in a world that often rewards ambition, power, and influence. But we must ask ourselves whether our actions demonstrate the wisdom that comes from a life of faith and humility. Are we building others up, or are we tearing them down? Are we pursuing justice and kindness, or are we more focused on our own gain?
The fruits of our lives – our deeds – should reflect the love, justice, and mercy of God. And if we find that we are bearing bad fruit, we must examine the roots of our actions and motivations. Just as a tree must be pruned or nurtured to produce better fruit, we must make changes in our lives that bring us into alignment with principles of wisdom and humility so that we can bear better fruit too.
Bearing Good Fruit in Troubled Times
The need for wisdom has never been more important than it is today. We face global crises – social, environmental, political, and moral. Every level of society, from the common person to those in authority, must be called to bear good fruit. The world is desperate for leadership rooted in true wisdom, a wisdom that is humble, just, and compassionate.
To bear good fruit is to engage in actions that reflect God’s love and truth. It is to stand up for justice, serve others selflessly, and remain humble in all circumstances. Whether in small daily decisions or in larger societal roles, every deed matters. It is a testimony of the kind of fruit we are producing, and ultimately, the kind of people we are becoming.
As we reflect on the state of the world, let us also reflect on our own contribution to it. Are we bearing fruit that helps to heal, build, and nurture? Or are we contributing to division, harm, or complacency? The Bible’s teachings remind us that our actions – no matter how small – are the markers of true wisdom.
In a Nutshell
In the end, we will all be recognized by the fruit that we bear. The wisdom we claim must be evidenced by a life lived well – by deeds done in humility, justice, and compassion. Let us strive to bear good fruit, to be agents of change in a world that desperately needs wisdom that is both humble and active. As the parable reminds us, by their fruit, we will recognize them – and let our fruit be the evidence of the wisdom that comes from God.
Let it be you who bears that good fruit. Join us in making the world a better place. You’ll be glad that you did. Cheers friends.