Beautiful Word Devotional #15

Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

James 3:18

Sowing and reaping and harvest—these are basic agricultural terms that are helpful in communicating spiritual truth.

For instance, when individuals who love the Lord sow seeds of peace, many benefit from the righteous behavior that results. But just like the role of a farmer, the role of peacemaker can be challenging. After all, we have to fight against our human nature—our sin nature—to choose peace over anger, to make our concern for others more important than our desire to be understood or our angry reactions, and to die to our own wishes and emotions for the sake of the relationship or community.

Being a person of peace helps us as well as those around us live rightly in God’s kingdom. Peace, for instance, fosters calmness, rational thinking, and even time for prayer before speaking and acting—all of which improve the odds that we’ll make right and righteous choices. Peacemakers help others resolve quarrels and part as friends. Peacemakers gently bring reconciliation to the world.

Lord, use me as a peacemaker in any and every situation you call me to, amen.