December 4, 2024 Daily Dose of Discernment

“He will settle nations’ disputes; they will convert their weapons of war into implements of peace. Then at last all wars will stop.” (Isa 2:4)

Everyone involved in a dispute is convinced they are right, whether on a personal level or national or international scale. No one engages himself in an argument thinking they’re wrong. But if we care to admit it, the real cause of quarrels is our own selfish desires within us (James 4:1), not the fault of another.

Isaiah envisioned a time when the Lord would settle conflicts. The Spirit of God in us should cause us to long for the reign of the Prince of Peace who will spread His victory feast and make our warring cease. That hope is not yet seen and so with perseverance we wait eagerly for it (Rom 8:25). How? Not idly or passively, but by living that peace in the present, thereby making the dream happen sooner.