September 21: Insight Post by Bret Burzio
Monday Insight Post
by J. Bret Burzio, Sr.
If you look up the definition for the word “yield,” you will quickly realize this verb has two very different meanings, but meanings that actually work harmoniously together in amazing ways. The Cambridge Dictionary gives the first definition as Yield verb (Produce) – to supply or produce something positive, such as profit. The second definition is written as Yield verb (Give Up) – to give up the control of or responsibility for something, often because you have been forced to. So, when we read this week’s scripture verse in James 3:17 (NLT, emphasis mine), 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 the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. Are we talking about producing something or giving up something? Well, the beauty of God’s Word is that we’re doing both at the same time.
If we are willing to yield to God’s guidance and direction in our lives (and yes, that frequently means we need to give up our own desires and plans in the process), He will use that willingness to yield to produce the fruit of good deeds in the most remarkable ways. The following verse in James 3:18 (NLT) says, And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. We’re not only planting seeds of peace in the lives of others, but we are reaping a harvest of righteousness in our own lives and more importantly, to the glory of God.
How do we do this tangibly? Start by yielding to others when you’re in the car, when you’re at the grocery store check-out line, when you’re late for an appointment, or perhaps when you’re in a rush at the dinner table with your family. Build up the habit of yielding to others in the little things so that you can begin yielding to them in the bigger things. In that next big argument, maybe it’s time to yield to your spouse, your co-worker, or the stranger who just did something that made you upset. The next time you’re in a rush to get through your quiet time with God, take a breath and take a moment to yield to Him and what He’s trying to show you. Allow your willingness to yield to change your perspective of what’s really important (i.e., loving Him and loving others!). There’s a stunningly simple beauty to this truth of yielding to yield.
J. Bret Burzio, Sr.
Executive Administrator
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
newhope.org