We have looked at
the importance of being open to reason. At this point let's take a quick look
at James 3:18, the last verse in the section on wisdom from above. The verse
reads: "And a harvest of
righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." The goal of being open to reason is to
make peace. Often in the middle of the confusion of family disturbances, the
goal of peace is lost. Instead, winning is substituted as the goal. The
opportunity for a harvest of peace is lost. Damage is done.
To underscore the importance of peace and peacemaking, I
have selected several passages that speak of peace. This compilation is by no
means comprehensive. Not every verse expresses a complete thought, but each
verse places a high value on peace. I challenge you to read the whole list
through slowly. As you read, notice how
dominant and how wide-ranging the concept of peace is, as employed by the Holy
Spirit. Sadly, as I read them, I began to see that many areas of my
conversation are lacking with regard to peace. May the peace of God come to you
has you read what the Spirit says about his peace. We will return to the rest
of James 3:17 in the next post.
Proverbs 3:16-18
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who
embrace her;
those who lay hold of her will be blessed.
Proverbs
14:30
A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
Proverbs
16:7
When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace
with him.
Proverbs
17:1
Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting,
with strife.
Matthew
5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
John
14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you
as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John
16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In
this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the
world."
John
20:21
Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I
am sending you."
Romans
14:17
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of
righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit…
Romans
14:19
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to
mutual edification.
Galatians
1:3
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ,
Galatians
5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness,
Ephesians
2:17
He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to
those who were near.
Ephesians
4:3
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Philippians
4:7
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard
your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Colossians
3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one
body you were called to peace.
1
Titus 3:1&2
Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to
be ready to do whatever is good, 2to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show
true humility toward all men.