“But the wisdom from above is pure first of all; it is also peaceful, gentle, and friendly; it is full of compassion and produces a harvest of good deeds; it is free from prejudice and hypocrisy.” (James 3:17 GNT)
Worldly values prompt us to display wealth by competitive spending. The stuff we purchase for ourselves, the trips we take, the exclusive schools we send our children to, the gifts we buy for others, and the donations we make to charity can all become tools to flaunt our affluence. While this sort of conspicuous consumption is a symptom of status seeking, inconspicuous generosity can be a sign of genuine goodness and authentic altruism.
According to a study published in the Journal of Economic Psychology, there is an inverse correlation between spirituality and materialism. This makes sense. Spirituality makes us more aware of those in need, those who are suffering. It also makes us grateful for what we have. This spirit of charity and gratitude decreases our desire for more and more. Our bucket list is no longer full of stuff to acquire or thrills to seek; instead, we look at every day as an opportunity to make a positive impact, to fulfill our calling. We give without seeking credit, without expectation of reciprocity. This is not worldly shrewdness, but spiritual insight. Free from prejudice and hypocrisy, this wisdom is pure, peaceful, gentle, and compassionate. This kind of true altruism displaces insatiable materialism, allowing us to leave behind the mundane pursuits of the masses, elevating us to heights of blessedness.
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