Peace is well worth pursuing.
“Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:18 NIV.
My thoughts and comments today urge you to “pursue peace.”
The value of peace is inestimable. “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:16 NIV. Tranquility is too valuable to live without. Those who lack peace most know its irreplaceable value best. There is peace of mind. There can be peace with your past and about the future. There should be peace in your marriage, home, and relationships. There is peace with others. But peace with God is the most essential and most cherished. ”Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way.” 2 Thessalonians 3:16 NIV. When peace with God is lacking, peace within yourself and with others is absent altogether, or at least diminished.
Let’s look at peace with others. What you cannot do is guarantee that every difference with others can be resolved mutually. Jesus understood that people, far from perfect and living in a fallen world, will give and take offence. In a strained and problematic situation, you must accept that sometimes the best thing you can do is just to not add to the situation further. However, your part of the problem, whether small or large, must be settled righteously. First, resolve in your heart that you have done everything you know to do, and commit that you will do anything God asks you to do.
The Bible’s wise counsel is: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 NIV. The steps for, “as far as it depends on you,” are fairly straight forward, but rarely pain free. Recognize how you have contributed to an offense. Ask God and the other party to forgive you. Make amends as they are needed. Forgive without waiting to be asked. Allow God time to work in hearts – yours and theirs – for restoration of the relationship as time and grace will allow.
Regrettably, we all contribute to a few of such circumstances. At times, you may have little inclination to either give or seek forgiveness. Unforgiveness and resentment will only bear bitter fruit in your heart and painful relationships in your life. When you feel hurt, accepting God’s terms for healing might take time and prayer, but will certainly require humility. Sometimes you will want to, “fix it,” but often cannot. As God works grace and forgiveness within you, allow God to work in other hearts as well, in His time and theirs.
Be wary of storing hurtful memories when feeling wronged or misunderstood. “Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy.” Hebrews 12:14 NIV. I think the simplest understanding of Jesus’ teaching is this: whenever and wherever your desire for peace is refused, don’t leave with less than the peace and blessing with which you came nor carry their spiritual and emotional baggage as you leave. Read Matthew 10:12-14 NKJV. Peaceably, go your way with only good will. “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.” 1 Peter 3:10-11 NIV. Peace is well worth pursuing. “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:18 NIV.
Today, I pray for you to value God’s sufficiency of grace when received or extended.
Christian Communications 2016
facebook.com/everydaylife.allenrandolph