THE DANGER OF CARNAL WISDOM

THE DANGER OF CARNAL WISDOM

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: James 3:13-17

Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 3:18-20, Proverbs 14:12, Romans 8:6-7, 2 Samuel 13:1-19, Isaiah 55:8-9

INTRODUCTION:
Carnal wisdom is the wisdom of the flesh, rooted in human reasoning, selfish ambitions, and earthly standards. It often opposes the principles of God and produces outcomes that are destructive and far from God's will. While it may seem logical and appealing on the surface, carnal wisdom leads to pride, division, and spiritual downfall. In a world that celebrates intellectualism and natural intelligence, believers must be discerning enough to distinguish between God's wisdom and man's wisdom.

James clearly outlines the nature of carnal wisdom—it is earthly, sensual, and devilish. This wisdom brings confusion and every evil work. Unfortunately, many lives, families, churches, and even nations have suffered because decisions were made based on carnal wisdom instead of divine direction. The consequences of choosing this kind of wisdom are devastating.

As we explore this study, may the Holy Spirit enlighten our hearts to identify carnal wisdom, avoid it completely, and walk in the superior wisdom of God that brings peace, purity, and eternal reward.

1. CHARACTERISTICS OF CARNAL WISDOM

a) It is Earthly and Sensual
Carnal wisdom is rooted in worldly thinking and human desires, not in spiritual discernment (James 3:15).

b) It is Driven by Selfish Ambition
Carnal wisdom seeks to promote self, not the glory of God (Philippians 2:3).

c) It Resists God’s Instructions
This kind of wisdom often contradicts God's Word and rejects divine counsel (Romans 8:7).

d) It Produces Confusion and Strife
Where carnal wisdom is present, there is always competition, envy, and disorder (James 3:16).

Biblical Example: The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) was a product of human reasoning without God, which ended in confusion.

2. DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH CARNAL WISDOM

a) Leads to Spiritual Death
To be carnally minded is death (Romans 8:6); it separates us from God's life and peace.

b) Opens Doors to Demonic Influence
Carnal wisdom is described as “devilish,” making one vulnerable to satanic manipulation (James 3:15).

c) Causes Destruction of Relationships
Decisions made in pride and selfishness destroy friendships, families, and fellowships (Proverbs 13:10).

d) Blocks Divine Promotion and Favour
God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6); carnal wisdom denies you access to divine favour.

Biblical Example: Ahithophel’s counsel to Absalom (2 Samuel 17:1-23) seemed wise but was ultimately frustrated by God and led to his downfall.

3. SIGNS YOU ARE OPERATING IN CARNAL WISDOM

a) You Always Rely on Human Logic
When your default decision-making system excludes prayer and Scripture, you may be walking in carnal wisdom.

b) You Prioritise Results Over Righteousness
Carnal wisdom focuses on outcomes, not whether the means please God (Proverbs 21:2).

c) You Are Driven by Emotions
Decisions made out of anger, fear, or lust often stem from the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21).

d) You Despise Godly Counsel
Rejecting the input of mature believers and spiritual leaders is a warning sign (Proverbs 12:15).

Biblical Example: Amnon’s reliance on Jonadab's advice (2 Samuel 13:1-19) led to his shame and death.

4. HOW TO ESCAPE THE TRAP OF CARNAL WISDOM

a) Submit to God’s Word
Let the Word of God be your standard for decision-making (Psalm 119:105).

b) Seek the Wisdom from Above
James 1:5 encourages us to ask God for wisdom that is pure and peaceable.

c) Walk in the Spirit Daily
Carnal wisdom fades when we stay connected to the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16).

d) Surround Yourself with Godly Counsel
In the multitude of counsellors, there is safety (Proverbs 11:14).

Biblical Example: Solomon sought divine wisdom and it brought peace and prosperity to Israel (1 Kings 3:9-14).

5. BENEFITS OF DIVINE WISDOM OVER CARNAL WISDOM

a) Produces Peace and Righteousness
God’s wisdom brings harmony and moral clarity (James 3:17).

b) Leads to Fruitful Living
It produces results that glorify God and benefit others (Matthew 7:17).

c) Attracts Divine Favour
God honours those who walk in His wisdom (Proverbs 3:13-18).

d) Sustains You in Times of Crisis
When trials come, divine wisdom provides strength and direction (Ecclesiastes 7:19).

Biblical Example: Joseph operated in divine wisdom, and it preserved nations during famine (Genesis 41:38-40).

CONCLUSION:
Carnal wisdom may appear attractive, but it is ultimately destructive. It originates from the flesh, resists the Spirit, and leads people away from God's purpose. God’s wisdom, however, is peaceable, pure, and full of good fruit. As believers, we must reject the counsel of the flesh and pursue the wisdom that comes from the throne of God.

Let us humble ourselves, seek divine counsel, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide our steps. In doing so, we will walk in safety, live in righteousness, and fulfil the divine purpose for our lives.

PRAYER POINTS:

1.  Lord, deliver me from every form of carnal wisdom that leads to destruction.

2.  Father, give me wisdom from above that is pure, peaceable, and full of mercy.

3.  Holy Spirit, guide my decisions so I do not walk in error.

4.  Lord, help me to submit to godly counsel and Your Word at all times.

5.  I reject every satanic manipulation that tries to influence my thinking.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1.  You shall no longer operate under carnal wisdom, but divine insight shall guide your path!

2.  The wisdom of God shall lift you above every error and trap of the enemy!

3.  You are delivered from confusion and deception in the name of Jesus!

4.  Divine understanding shall preserve your destiny and secure your future!

5.  From today, you will make sound decisions that glorify God and bless generations!