A new standard

 But the wisdom that comes from God is first of all pure, then peaceful, gentle, and easy to please. This wisdom is always ready to help those who are troubled and to do good for others. It is always fair and honest. People who work for peace in a peaceful way plant a good crop of right-living. (James 3:17-18)

What 'crop' are you planting today? Are you planting actions that reveal a heart 'working for peace'? In today's world, we can see all manner of tensions and upsets. We need godly individuals who will rise up, live peaceable lives, being godly examples that reveal how God's presence in our lives helps us live in peace and with peace. We cannot live 'in' peace with each other until we are 'at peace' with God. 

God's presence in our lives brings a new standard for living, but it is far from just living a 'religious life'. As we begin to be affected by the peace of God within, we begin to operate in the realm of his wisdom and purpose. That 'change in operating standards' is what some might call 'religion', but it is really a change of leadership in our lives. That change of leadership brings with it an influx of the wisdom of God that affects us in many ways.

His wisdom is pure - bringing a change in our inner man that moves from leaning toward crass and harsh interactions with each other to considerate and kind actions. Where there is a purity in thoughts, actions are bound to change for the best. Peaceful and gentle actions are an outflow of a changed heart. Mind, will, and emotions all being affected deeply by his grace-filled presence within.

When the 'within' is right, the 'without' is better! The actions we reveal toward others are going to exemplify the grace of God that has affected us on the inside. The more we allow his wisdom to point out areas where there is any impurity, a lack of his peace, or any harshness in our character, the more we will begin to live 'at peace' with others. Why? His peace becomes our new standard for living - with ourselves and with others. Just sayin!