ESOCS Devotional 2 May 2026 – God’s Brand of Leadersip WIsdom
MEMORY VERSE: “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favouritism and is always sincere.” James 3:17 NLT
TEXT: JAMES 3:13-18
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
READ OTHER ESOCS DEVOTIONAL HERE
In today’s article, we shall be reflecting on Apostle James’s teaching on the brand of divine wisdom that should be seen in the leadership style of a Christian leader. In our text, the apostle portrays the wisdom of good leaders who manifest godly conduct in their lives. In this case, we see that the ultimate qualification of a good Christian leader is that he manifests in his life that which he teaches or preaches. He must show good conduct through a submissive attitude and behaviour (Matthew 5:5; 11:29; 1 Peter 3:15).
Contrary to the meek and humble lifestyle that would portray the character of a good Christian leader, the hypocrisy of the ungodly person is manifested in the divisive and arrogant life that he lives. This is in sharp contrast to the teachings he proclaims. Such leaders use the Church as a platform to carry out their selfish ambitions, to the detriment of the Body of Christ. In a toxic environment like this, such ministers harbour envy and jealousy against those with whom they compete for recognition or control (Romans 13:13; 1 Corinthians 3:3).
As a matter of fact, Christians leaders should lead by being slaves to the needs of others (Mark 10:35-45). They should not lead by invested authority, but by submission to the needs of the people (John 13:1-17). This is the brand of leadership wisdom from above. No Christian leader is adjudged to have full knowledge of the truth, unless he brings his life into conformity with the truth of the gospel (3 John 3).
Knowing the truth, therefore, refers to more than just having a knowledge of what is right and true. It must be manifested in one’s character and leadership style. This is the wisdom from above, as distinct from mere theoretical, carnal or head knowledge.
Reflections
- Teaching one thing, and acting otherwise is sheer hypocrisy. Or what do you think?
Prayer
- Lord Jesus, grant me the grace of divine wisdom.
Further Reading: 2 Samuel 23:1-7; Jeremiah 3:11-25; Mark 14:32-52
ESOCS Devotional 2 May 2026
