Thought for Today

James 3:17-18  wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.  18 Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

 

James has chosen a topic that is counter-cultural.  The type of life that God desires is peace-loving and it seems that peace is often elusive in the American family and church.  The concept of disruption has pushed peace to the back burner and conflicts abound.  Consideration of another’s feelings is vacated in lieu of selfishness.  Submission would appear to be a modern-day vulgarity.  Mercy is replaced with a critical eye and good fruit is only evident when there is an audience.

 

Rather than focus on the symptom, I would like to focus on how we correct these fatal flaws.  After all, complaining is easy.  Changing, now that’s a different story.  I believe we have to recognize that this wisdom is coming from heaven.  It comes down from the Father who does not change like the wind and it comes from the one who knows how to give good gifts to his children.  I find that when I am critical of others, I have not allowed the power of God to infuse me with his righteousness.  When I am inconsiderate, I have not spent enough time with the Prince of Peace.  Prayer is lacking, the Word is neglected and worship is dry.

 

We all know that life is far too busy and we end up replacing God schedule fillers.  If we are going to be peacemakers, we will have to find time to spend around the throne of God.  If selfishness is defeated, it will be because God’s children have purposefully decided to allow their attitudes to be transformed by the renewing of the mind.  And the promise remains:  If you so in peace, you will raise a harvest of right living.