Consider the following from James’ pen, “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace” (James 3:18).
James’ words complete a section of scripture (13-18) contrasting true wisdom with what men often consider to be wise. These are described as “wisdom [that] does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic” (15). And, “the wisdom that is from above [that] is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (17).
These words must be put into the proper context of scripture as a whole. They do not preclude a contending for truth, and an insistence that peace comes through the unity characterized by the Father and the Son. Jesus prayed, “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me” (John 17:20-21).
What James clearly indicates is our proper inclination. It is love and peace. We are to rejoice in unity, not in division. Heavenly wisdom requires for us to be righteous. We must sow peace! Do not be bitter, do not be envious, do not seek your own. Make peace!
