James 3:17

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy an..." — James 3:17 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations.

“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.”

James 3:17 (NIV)

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Surrounding verses

Read James 3:17 with the verses next to it, then open James 3 in full.

James 3:16

For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

James 3:18

Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

When people use this verse

People often open James 3:17 when they are looking for Scripture on love.

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James · NIV

John

“The Word Became FleshIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

— John 1:1

What is this verse about?

James 3:17 is found in the New Testament, in the book of James. This verse comes from chapter 3, which can be read in full at the James chapter 3 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.

How people apply it

As you reflect on James 3:17, consider how God's truth applies to your current circumstances. Scripture is living and active — it speaks into every season of life. Let this verse shape your thoughts, decisions, and relationships as you walk in faith.

Related verses

Curated from this site's topic lists — not a keyword scan of the verse text.

1 John 5:2

This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands.

Hebrews 13:1

Keep on loving each other as brothers.

Jeremiah 31:3

The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.

Proverbs 5:19

A loving doe, a graceful deer— may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love.

Psalms 25:10

All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant.

Psalms 59:10

my loving God. God will go before me and will let me gloat over those who slander me.

Psalms 59:17

O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God.

Psalms 62:12

and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.

A short prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth revealed in James 3:17. Open my heart to receive Your Word and transform my life. Help me apply this Scripture faithfully and share its hope with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.