…but god James 3: 17-18
Transcript
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
James 3:17-18
Today we focus on the last part of James 3:18. “And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
As followers of Christ we want to bear fruit that is righteous, that is from God. We do that by being lovers of peace. Jesus said “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
Matthew 5:9 NASB2020
We just came back from Seattle. (Thank y’all for your prayers, it was a great trip). My wife’s family is extremely progressive. They have had some very traumatic experiences with what they consider to be “self righteous judgmental evangelicals.” Therefore, our faith is always being tested while we are with them. Sometimes trips have been very difficult and I have had to separate myself from the group because I did not want to say something that would hurt or offend them and create discord. This trip was different, I think it was different because so many people were praying for Sharon and I. We also made the decision to do as God calls us to do and love and not judge. That was so freeing for us. In conversations I asked probing questions and listened to their hearts. Through those conversations Sharon and I were able to share our hearts and God revealed Himself in mighty ways. I firmly believe this trip planted the seeds of love that will allow Sharon and I to continue our witness of our faith to her family through the Love of Christ. We had fantastic time because we released all our fears to Him and decided through the power of the Holy Spirit to sow love and be peace makers. That made all the difference.
God of all creation we thank and praise your Holy Name. We thank you for your son and His death on the cross that gives us forgiveness of sin. We thank you for the resurrection of Jesus that gives us eternal life with you. Help us to do a better job as followers to be “pure, peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and free of hypocrisy.” Help us to “bear the fruit of righteousness that is sown in peace.” So that others may know you by our love which is Christ Jesus. We pray all these things in Jesus Name Amen.
Shalom, Shalom Blessings! Press In and Press On!
by Chad McBeam
