James 3:16-18
In fact, where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and every bad practice. But the wisdom that comes from above is first pure, then also peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who practice peace.
Applying God’s word for today:
Do you ever get frustrated by the world? There seems to be so much chaos, disorder, and dishonesty that you don’t know which way to turn. James tells us why: it comes from envy and selfish ambition; it stems from our pride; ultimately it comes from sin. It is easy to wag our fingers at everyone else, claiming they are the problem. But even that attitude comes from the same root cause—our sinful nature. We can try really hard to be better people, putting on an outward show, but if no change happens on the inside, people see through the façade.
Where does a change of heart come from? Wisdom—from knowing and trusting the Lord. Faith trusts in Jesus, and wisdom is knowing that your sins are forgiven. True wisdom comes only from the Holy Spirit, who leads us to know Christ, trust His promises, and rest in Him. This is where you find true peace. Knowing the love God has for you, you receive gentleness. James wrote, “Peace by those who practice peace.” Faith in Jesus receives Christ’s righteousness and the forgiveness He won for us. So we have nothing to fear; all your guilt and shame are gone, and you have peace to give to the world.
While we cannot make the change ourselves, the Holy Spirit does so through His gift of faith; He brings about that change within us. Then we can share God’s love and wisdom with others so that a change might also occur in them. There will always be chaos in this world until the end, so don’t let it cause you to give up sowing peace. Faith in Jesus is the key to true peace; hold on to the forgiveness He has won for you and share it with others.
Dear Lord God, grant me the wisdom to know Your love. May I have the peace only You can give. Forgive me of my envy and selfish ambition; turn my focus to serving others around me with the same love You have showered upon me. May Your Holy Spirit change my heart so that I love and serve according to Your will for me. Amen.
We will always have trouble in the world because we will always have sin until Jesus comes again. Through God’s word and sacrament, our hearts are changed, bringing the peace we can share with others.