PEACE EVERLASTING

READING: JAMES 3:13-18

Verse 16: “For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.”

This verse speaks deeply into the sin and iniquity that are so evident upon the earth in recent times. One powerful example of its truth is the world’s horrible experience because of Nazi Germany. At the utter extreme of self-seeking, Hitler declared that Germans were of the superior Nordic race and that all other non-Nordic people were inferior. This lie caused gross deception that brought about the presence of evil at its uttermost. Wherever the Nazi influence prevailed, every attempt was made to suppress Christian influence. Further, the torture and murder of millions of Jews occurred; and the death and destruction of World War II took place. With that as background, it is refreshing to have verse 18 of James 3 as our alternative. It promises that “...the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” The victory at the end of World War II provided a limited and temporary peace. However, we rejoice that the Prince of Peace and all who accept the peace of His Lordship; will know and live eternal peace. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. Is it an exaggeration to say that “every evil thing” was present during World War II?

2. Where are “envy and self-seeking” most evident in the world today?