| “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving…” |
| —James 3:17a |
Our society today in the United States thrives on conflict. In virtually every sphere of our daily life, conflict rises to the surface. It dominates our conversation. The media, of course, fuels this conflict.
Many years ago, a dear friend of mine hosted a national radio program on the then only major Christian radio network. Not only did my friend possess what radio people call a “thunder throat,” he was highly intelligent, extremely well-educated, and had an innate curiosity that made him an excellent interviewer. As a fellow broadcaster, he always treated me very kindly and on several occasions had me as a guest on his nightly program to talk about various issues regarding fire safety.
One day, he telephoned me to tell me he had lost his job hosting a nationally syndicated evening talk radio program. The reason: he wasn’t controversial enough. He didn’t press his guests hard enough. When they stumbled, he didn’t “go in for the kill.” I was astonished. I couldn’t believe that a Christian radio network would not appreciate my friend’s very gentle, yet intellectually probing approach. But, no, they wanted the host to engage in conflict and spar with the guests.
God does not want us to seek conflict. While there may be times when we have to take a stand against evil, there are many more times when we should promote an environment of peace. Please note these words from the apostle James, as recorded in James 3:17-18:
But 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.
God’s wisdom is peace-loving. As we begin a new day, let’s determine to put conflict aside and promote peace. Let’s determine to not let the media stir up foolish anger within us. Instead, let’s become gentle ambassadors of God’s love and grace to a troubled and conflict-filled world. Let’s show the kind of peace that reaps a harvest of righteousness.
Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, May 23, 2016
