James 3:14-16 (KJV) states: "But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."

In these verses, James is addressing the issue of bitter envying and strife within the hearts of the believers. This passage serves as a warning against allowing jealousy and contention to take root in their hearts and minds. It also provides insights into the characteristics of wisdom that comes from God contrasted with the wisdom that is of the world.

The context of this passage is important to understand the significance of what James is conveying to the readers. James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote this letter to Jewish Christians who were experiencing trials and persecutions. He wanted to encourage them in their faith and instruct them on how to live a righteous and godly life.

Firstly, James acknowledges that bitter envying and strife have no place among believers. He admonishes them not to boast or glory in such attitudes, nor should they deceive themselves by thinking that these attitudes are in line with the truth of God's word. This is a clear warning against the dangers of allowing jealousy and discord to fester in the hearts of believers, as it goes against the principles of love, unity, and peace that characterize the Christian life.

James then contrasts the origin of two different kinds of wisdom. He explains that the wisdom that leads to bitterness, envy, and strife does not come from above, but is instead "earthly, sensual, devilish." This kind of wisdom is rooted in worldly desires, fleshly impulses, and influenced by the devil. It is in direct opposition to the wisdom that comes from God.

The wisdom that comes from above is characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, willingness to yield, and mercy (James 3:17). It is a wisdom that is aligned with the nature and character of God, reflecting His holiness and goodness. This passage serves as a reminder for believers to discern between the source of wisdom that guides their thoughts, actions, and attitudes, and to seek after the wisdom that comes from God.

Finally, James warns that where envy and strife exist, there is confusion and every evil work. This statement highlights the destructive nature of jealousy and discord within the body of Christ. When believers allow these negative attitudes to take root, it leads to division, chaos, and a breeding ground for all types of evil behavior. Therefore, James is urging the readers to be vigilant and guard against these toxic attitudes that can lead to spiritual and relational harm.

Overall, this passage addresses themes of jealousy, wisdom, and the destructive nature of strife within the Christian community. It serves as a guide for believers to examine their own hearts and attitudes, and to seek after the wisdom that comes from God. Additionally, this passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace, unity, and love within the body of Christ, while guarding against the divisive and destructive nature of envy and strife. As believers, we are called to pursue the wisdom that comes from God, which leads to righteousness, peace, and harmony within the church and in our relationships with others.