HEAVEN'S HARVEST

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. James 3:17-18, NIV

Concerning the things that are considered to be smart or the right things to do, James reminds us that the wisdom from above is not at all like the wisdom of this world. God has told us that His ways are higher than our ways, as the heavens are higher than the earth. His thoughts are not like our thoughts, and we don't need to look too far at all in this world to understand that.

Godly wisdom sets itself apart from this world in that first of all it shows itself as pure in an impure world. It does not tolerate others; rather, it is full in an abundance and overflowing with mercy and good deeds. Not good deeds to those who can do us a favor later, but not considering those kinds of human angles or kickbacks. Good deeds done to one and all in Jesus' name, with, as best as we can, no ulterior motivations.

This kind of living and loving represents heaven's harvest. When we plant these kinds of seeds in the grace of Jesus Christ our Lord, we will indeed reap a harvest. What will that be? One that endeavors to be a bridge builder, a peace speaker, and a peacemaker to see people come into a place of right standing with God. God's wisdom reflects who He is, while earthly wisdom retlects the darkness and sin that lie within people's hearts. In order to attain God's wisdom, believers need to ask in faith and humbly receive transformation through God's Word by the power of the Holy Spirit.

True wisdom does not come from a high IQ or from high scores on college entrance exams. True wisdom is a gift from God, given to help us live as God expects us. It is the kind of wisdom that affects every area of our everyday lives. "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." This is the wisdom each one of us needs.

Ask God today and every day to fill you with His wisdom. Pray for the presence of the Holy Spirit to help you experience the wisdom that comes from heaven!!!

Father, thank You for this day and the breath of life. Lord, open the storehouses of Your abundant blessings upon us and our family today. Lord, give us wisdom from above; we cannot produce it on our own. Lord, help us be "peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere”. Lord, help us see the supreme value of unity and togetherness. Lord, use us to live in the peaceful fruit of righteousness and help others who come our way experience it too.

Father, we love You. Amen.