James 3:18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Do you consider yourself to be a peacemaker or someone who sits by and silently observes, choosing to remain separate? Today we look at the peacemakers and what they gain from getting involved. We find ourselves in the book of James where we see the outcome of our efforts when we become a peacemaker.
In the passage leading up to verse 18, we see that James contrasted different types of wisdom – earthly vs heavenly. Verse 18 serves as the conclusion to the passage, informing readers that operating in heavenly wisdom that is peaceful produces results that are what James called a harvest of righteousness. But what exactly does all of that mean and how do we apply it in our own lives today?
When we choose to take action by resolving conflicts by being peaceful, gentle, merciful, etc., we create an environment where a God-honoring life can grow. Righteousness becomes the byproduct of our efforts. If we choose to live a life that is selfish or where we try to gain things through fighting, spiritual maturity does not happen. It cannot take root and grow. But someone who sows in peace, who chooses to actively pursue peacemaking with the people in their lives and community, those people reap a harvest of righteousness or experience a life that is Godly and morally just.
To put it another way, we can view peace as the soil in which we plant. It must be rich and fertile for spiritual things like righteousness to grow. We cannot achieve a harvest without a soil that is properly prepared. Just like the farmer who needs proper soil to plant crops in, righteousness cannot thrive in an atmosphere of chaos or bitterness.
There are things we can do to help be peacemakers and reap a harvest of righteousness. We can choose to be active participants. Instead of letting arguments escalate and disrupt the peace, choose to help bring about reconciliation and create harmony. When we find ourselves in the midst of a disagreement with others, choose to let go of things that may be self-seeking or selfish. We should try to approach disagreements with purity, gentleness, mercy, and sincerity (James 3:17).
And over everything we need to give it to God. Turn to Him, trusting that He will bring about peace and reconciliation in the circumstances you find yourself. Commit everything to prayer and let the Spirit guide you in a manner that is loving and peaceful.
Today let’s look for opportunities to cultivate peace in our lives. Let’s examine our motives and behaviors and choose peace over all else.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be a peacemaker. Guide me in living a life filled with peace where I actively choose to bring about reconciliation and help reap a harvest of righteousness. Amen
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