God calls us to be caretakers of his world. Understanding my role as a steward of this creation helps to turn my selfish greed into righteous generosity.
13 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. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. 17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Earthly “wisdom”
Have I convinced myself that envy and selfish ambition are not bad?
How do I view the possessions I own?
mine (I can do whatever I want)
caretaker (I am an entrusted steward)
What does my generosity look like?
Firstfruits or Leftovers
Heavenly wisdom
pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive (trusting), full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere
What does this wisdom look like?
move from good intentions to regular habit (pattern)