Daily Devotional – Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
James 3:18 (NKJV)
Abraham had every reason to assert his rights. God had promised him the land, yet a dispute broke out between his herdsmen and those of his nephew Lot. There wasn’t enough pasture for both households. Abraham could have reminded Lot that the land was his and demanded that his nephew move. Instead, he let Lot choose where to settle. The older man had all the rights to the land, but he chose peace over a family quarrel.
Why Your Attitude Matters When You Are Right
That story illustrates our key text. James states, “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” He warns against envy and selfish ambition, which lead to disorder. He describes wisdom from above as pure, peaceable, gentle and full of mercy. Further, he asserts that faith shows up in how we treat people when we disagree. It’s one thing to know what’s right; it’s another to handle it wisely.
Let’s be honest: staying calm when you know you’re right can be quite a challenge. You want the other person to admit it, perhaps in front of witnesses. Yet being right doesn’t give us permission to put someone down. Abraham could have insisted on having his way, but he chose peace and reconciliation. James isn’t telling us to abandon truth. He reminds us that even when we stand for what is right, we must not let pride affect how we treat others.
Can You Be Right and Still Be Wrong?
Such scenarios are common at home, at work or even at church. Someone says something unfair, and you feel ready to respond. While you may have the facts on your side, pause and ask yourself, “What am I hoping to achieve?” Do you want to resolve the problem or make the other person feel small? Doing so may change things, bringing peace and reconciliation instead of fuelling conflict.
The next time you disagree with someone, think of Abraham. You can acknowledge problems and avoid letting others take advantage of you. You can stand firm without becoming hostile, and correct someone without humiliating them. Is there a relationship where tension has been building? Take one small step towards peace today. Not because you’re wrong, but because doing what is right matters more than winning an argument.
Prayer
Father in heaven, whenever I am tempted to insist on my right while exhibiting pride and hostility, remind me that the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace.
