Today’s Scripture Reading: Isaiah 32; Isaiah 33; Isaiah 34; Isaiah 35; James 2
16 The LORD’s justice will dwell in the desert, his righteousness live in the fertile field.
17 The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.
18 My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.
19 Though hail flattens the forest and the city is leveled completely,
20 how blessed you will be, sowing your seed by every stream, and letting your cattle and donkeys range free. (Isaiah 32:16-20)
Just as fruit appears on apple and a myriad of other trees, so it appears in the life of the believer whose life is rooted in the Almighty. Just as any fruit tree sends down deep roots, is watered through the rains that fall on earth, blossoms and bears fruit, so it is with the lives of those whose ways are committed to the LORD.
We see real fruit in the lives of believers. Their ways are righteous. Along with moral uprightness, they are godly and virtuous people. And the evidence of that righteousness is peace. Quietness. Confidence. Secure homes. Undisturbed places of rest. Blessedness.
Righteousness is basically right standing with God. Its also right standing with our fellow man. This brings the fruit of peace. Peace with God and others.
Have you ever been in a peaceful place – either a physically peaceful surroundings, or just a peaceful place in your heart? You can relax and be your best self, and maybe even let your hair down. There’s a certain joy, and seeming effortlessness or ease that goes with it.
May our lives reflect the love of God, and reveal the fruit of righteousness today and always. Peace be with you. Selah.
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