The fruit of righteousness will be peace. (Isaiah 32:17)Isaiah writes of a coming turmoil, a frenzied panic from which no man or earthly power can save Judah. While the women of Jerusalem are complacent in their denial of what's coming, the writer says that in less than a year their misplaced confidence will be shattered. Where is peace?
In chapter 33 the question is asked: Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire? Who of us can dwell with the everlasting burning? (v. 14) This is not talking about the fires of hell, but the presence of God. Note the answer: He who walks righteously and speaks what is right (v. 15).
This passage brings to mind Psalm 15: Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous (vv. 12).
These passages tell us the way to peace is through right living. Too often we bring trouble on ourselves, and then pray for peace as if it were an entitlement. We think it will come without any change in how we live. But peace is the fruit of a disciplined life. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who are trained by it (Hebrews 12:11).
If in your heart of hearts you are experiencing more turmoil than peace, what are you going to do about it?
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