And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.

James 3:18

We are all seed-planters. When we allow anger to rule our heats, we plant seeds of resentment and seeds of bitterness. When we continually settle our hearts on all the “what-ifs” in life, we scatter seeds of fear and worry. When we compare and compete, we sow seeds of jealousy and pride. And when we keep more for ourselves than we are willing to share with those in need, we plant the nasty weeds of greed and selfishness and discontentment. They choke out truth, grab our ankles, and trip us up. And their thick, tangled briers effortlessly block the light of Jesus.

Many people think that they will change “someday”, that they will grow up and become less self-focused, more generous, and more obedient as they age. But it doesn’t work that way. God has no use for people who call themselves Christians but do nothing about it. The only reward of selfish living is just more of the same, because when we plant seeds of sin, all we will ever harvest is more sin. Peace and righteousness can never thrive in such harsh conditions. 

Jesus calls you to live differently. He calls you to live your life planting seeds of peace, wisdom, selflessness, and love. And those seeds grow into beautiful vines that look a whole lot like Jesus. (John 15:5) What kind of seeds do you plant? Seeds of criticism or encouragement? Seeds of combativeness or gentleness? Seeds of irritability or patience? Be a peacemaker! Plant only the seeds that lift others up and shine the light of Jesus. When you plant seeds that produce spiritual fruit, the reward is a right relationship with God and others…and baskets overflowing with fruit. (Galatians 5:22-23) You are loved! 

Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be blessed. Matthew 5:9