Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

(James 3:18 NIV)

Lawrence Welk was a beloved bandleader and television personality, known for his charm and, occasionally, his unique use of the English language. A few of his memorable quotes have made people smile for reasons he may not have intended:

— “I just wrote a book, but don’t go out and buy it yet, because I don’t think it’s finished yet.”
— “There are good days and there are bad days, and this is one of them.”
— Introducing a guest performer: “His act may start out slow, but it tapers off.”
— To his band: “Boys, look like you’re having fun, but don’t have any.”
— To his stand-in: “Whenever you have a minute, I’d like to see you right now.”
— Referring to a singing duo: “They were so good, I could hardly wait to get out of there.”
— “That’s what really broke the camel’s straw.”
— “You know, when people band together, it causes a house divided.”

That last one really makes you stop and think — because the exact opposite is true! When people “band together,” that’s what creates unity, not division.  Division happens when people stop communicating, when pride takes over, when jealousy festers, or when bitterness is allowed to grow.  

The Bible describes this in James 3:16–18: “For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.  But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” (NIV)

Notice that peace doesn’t just happen — it’s sown by those who actively make peace. It takes effort, humility, and the wisdom that comes from above. The more we seek God’s wisdom, the more we’ll find ourselves being gentle rather than harsh, patient rather than proud, and peacemakers rather than troublemakers.

May your efforts today — your words, your attitudes, your choices — help build harmony and not division. And may your “band” be one that truly stays together in the peace of Christ.

Prayer: Father, give us the wisdom that comes from above — wisdom that is pure, peace-loving, and gentle. Help us to resist pride and selfishness and instead sow peace wherever we go. May our words and actions draw others closer to you and to one another.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

Alan Smith
Reprinted with permission from Alan Smith’s Thought For the Day