Saturday, July 19, 2008

War and Peace

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(James 3:18) And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

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Farmers cannot sow or reap in battlefields (which is demonstrated by vast African regions of ex-farmlands that are now overcome by desert and drought). What causes interpersonal and intrapersonal conflicts? James 4:1-5 lists: (1) hedonist passions and emotions that are fueled by (2) covetous imaginations, a product of idolizing and craving what others seem to enjoy (Colossians 3:1-7). Ultimately, we are God's "farm," and He yearns to produce health in us (James 4:5; Galatians 5:22).

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James explains how I can make peace within myself and my relationships. It begins with submitting to God and resisting the devil and his evil deceptions (4:7). Peace thrives when I draw near to God, stop indulging in sins, and totally cherish God (4:8). Peace has room to grow when I honestly realize (stop denying) the misery of my situation without the Lord's blessing (4:9). This deliberate humility removes the obstacles to bountiful harvests of righteousness and peace (4:10).

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Today, Lord, please cultivate Your peaceful fruits in me. I yield myself in spirit and in truth to wholly serve and worship You. Amen!

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