James 3:18 “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.”
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called Sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9). Peacemakers will be recognized as God’s children. James adds that there is an element of upfront investment and waiting (i.e., sowing) in order to see God bring a harvest of righteousness. This could be sowing peace into my own heart per 3:17 or it could be sowing peace into the people around me, again per 3:17 and Galatians 5. The result I seek is a harvest of righteousness – relationships that are unified, honorable, faithful, and pure in the eyes of God and man.
Father, use me as a peacemaker today. Please don’t allow me to stir up dissension or to add fuel to the fires of existing conflicts between people. I know peacemaking takes time, patience, and much prayer, but you promise that you will bring a harvest of your righteousness. Please do that in and through me.