James 3:17-18
The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Many churches observe that they have very few people in their 20s and 30s. Whenever I’ve asked people in that age group what they are looking for, one theme dominates: authenticity. They are looking for Christians and churches which ring true because they practise what they preach. James was on exactly the same page and was ruthless in addressing those who say the right words but live a phoney life. What he longed for was truly wise people.
Living wisely is attractive in every way. The wisdom comes directly from God, but it has very down-to-earth implications. James draws particular attention to the fact that wise people love peace and go out of their way to make it.
The word for peace that James uses here is built on the Hebrew word shalom. Shalom means peace, but much more than merely an absence of conflict and tension. It means the presence of God who brings life and renewal to every part of our lives. He wants us to know His peace in our families, our work, our leisure, our churches and our communities – everywhere. And when God fills us with His peace, He commissions us to be peacemakers, which will result in an amazing harvest of righteousness – everything that is best. Who wouldn’t want that?
Question
In what situation could you be a peacemaker today?
Prayer
Loving God, You are the source of all true peace. Give me a longing to be a peacemaker today and the wisdom and strength to be nothing less. Amen

Released on 27 Sep 2026