September 16, 2014

¹³ Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.  James 3:13 ESV

I struggled with application of this verse at first reading.  However, after reading several commentaries, its applicability came to light.

In Barnes Notes on the Bible I found that James 3:13 was written "with reference to the work of public teaching; and the meaning of the apostle is, that if there were such persons among them, they should be selected for that office."   In my position as principal I am a teacher of sorts. While not in the classroom I am responsible for the professional development of a staff of a dozen teachers, indirectly the instruction of over 200 young people, and the oversight of 8-10 noncertificated staff.

Any wisdom I may have acquired or been granted over these past 29+  years in public education is all for naught if not accompanied by good conduct and meekness.  I am reminded of the quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson,"Your actions speak so loudly, I cannot hear what you are saying."

True to the theme of his book, James reminds Christians that words alone are insufficient.  They must be reinforced with right living and Godly works.