But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
(James 3:17-18 NLT)
So you desire true righteousness, your heart yearns to be the person God intends, then make peace and do not be jealous or have selfish ambitions. To chase after the things that would build up an earthly kingdom is to relinquish that which is eternal. In your training to be a follower of Christ Jesus you must be single minded and whole hearted, undivided in your determination because all your efforts will be required as you move forward. The closer you get the more opportunities you will have to be distracted, as you begin to teach others the things you have learned the more criticism you will receive and the more prepared you must be. As you stand up to reclaim what the enemy has stolen not only do you make yourself a target from frontal attacks, which you are no doubt prepared for but also from behind, which will take you by surprise. There are many who choose to live in the land of familiar and come against any who would disturb their false peace and sense of security. It’s not good enough that they live there but they want everyone they know to remain in this place with them, numb and desensitized to the call of the unfamiliar.
In this journey let your heart be your guide and fight to listen to it, even when others would tell you that you have missed the mark. Make peace with them but remain determined, for the call that you hear has also called to them but they have let it die. Failures in battle cause us to lose the war unless we remain determined. As you continue you must realize the call is beyond you, it may be your dream but it did not originate from you and should you fail others will rise to continue where you left off so do not let go, even when you feel you cannot go on. Something inside you tells you it is the pearl of great price that you have always hoped for and something you could never obtain on your own but that it has been given to you. You are making progress so be encouraged even when you cannot see past the rock faced mountain in front of you. The seeds of peace you have planted will produce a bountiful harvest and rest will be provided before the journey’s end. Remember this, righteousness and victory cannot be separated, it is not by strength the war is won but by the spirit which led you to this place.
