Every Christian can mature in Christ to a place where they are able to teach and lead others in the faith. But that process of maturation does not happen overnight. The signs of maturity emerge over time as the Christian receives all that Christ is. Chief among these signs, according to James, is the work to make peace. Those who harbor bitterness or are quick to compare status lack the wisdom that comes from the heavens. More maturation is needed in order that they might come to know the things that make for peace -- gentleness, openness, mercy, impartiality, sincerity. Wisdom is not a series of mastered ideas. It is the way of being Christ in the world. And the journey into his way often follows the path of pain.