Read the transcript from today's video devotional.
A Seed that Looks Nothing Like its Fruit
I don't think I have ever seen a piece of fruit look like the seed it came from. It always goes into the ground and comes out looking different. Today's Verse of the Day speaks directly to the fruit of peacemaking.
It comes from James chapter 3, verse 18. It says, "And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness."
The Cost of Planting Peace
Planting seeds of peace. As much as there are times where I would love to say something that would make me feel really good in the moment, it would be better for the moment if I didn't say anything at all. Maybe you found yourself there, or you have a relationship that needs some space. A friend that once was close steps away for a season to work on something going on in their own heart.
For you, it might be really easy to think and to picture the conversation you would have—if you only knew what this distance is doing to my heart, or you really got to work on this. Different things come to mind. Maybe you're in that situation. Planting seeds of peace can hurt. It might mean that you don't do something you really want to do for the sake of peace. It might mean that you do something no one else wants to do for the sake of peace. That seed goes into the ground.
Planting seeds and seeing fruit is not instantaneous. When you put a seed into the ground, it takes time. Roots have to go down, a stem has to grow, and the stem then has to turn into a tree, which then produces branches and leaves and ultimately fruit.
Trusting God with the Outcome
Planting seeds of peace does not mean the outcome will look the way you expect it to. To go back to our scenarios, maybe the friend that you've given space to steps away and you don't see them for a very long time. You have to trust that the Lord knows what their heart needs, just as much as He knows what your heart needs.
We can't ignore the fact that that seed of peace was planted, and that God is the only one who can make it grow.
Jesus, the Ultimate Peacemaker
As we wait on that growth, I want to remind us of this: Jesus is the ultimate peacemaker—peace is in His name. The Prince of Peace went to the cross for you and for me. He was buried just like a seed, and after three days He was resurrected, which means that our harvest is righteousness and eternity with Him when we choose to believe.
The disciples waiting for Jesus were hopeless after He was buried. Some may have even questioned whether they gave their lives to someone who could really come through on His word. Questions have their place, and time has to pass before Jesus appears.
The Harvest Will Come
As you're waiting for a harvest of righteousness from the peace that you've planted, remember Jesus and know He doesn't stay dead. The seed always bears fruit. Trust Jesus. He'll walk you through. He'll keep you in perfect peace. The harvest will be beautiful.
