Articles
Being a Child of God: A Peacemaker
BE A PEACEMAKER. EVERYWHERE. EVERY TIME.
Whether you like it or not, at some point in life you’re going to get honked at for no good reason. Someone close to you will treat you unfairly... a troublemaker will come barreling into your life and make you ready to scream…
Now what?
How will you react?
Anyone can stay peaceful, calm, positive and self-controlled when the waters are smooth. But what you do when the waves and chops come will be a true testimony of your character. It’s not easy. It’s not easy in 2016, and it wasn’t easy when the apostles were walking the earth, either. To the best of my knowledge, the Bible mentions living with peace and unity 36 times. Anything repeated that many times tells me that I’m not the only one who needs to hear it over and over. But that’s what is expected of us. We are God’s people. A holy nation. Set apart. A shining light:
Hebrews 12:14 - We are to pursue peace with all men!
Matthew 5:9 - Peacemakers will called children of God (this is a blessing)!
One of the easiest ways to pursue peace is to realize that each person is precious in God’s sight, has the hairs on their head numbered, and has a soul worthy of saving. We are all important. When asked, 93% of Americans put themselves in top 50% of skilled drivers. We think we’re great!
Funny, yes, but it makes a point. We do have a tendency to believe we are a little better than the next guy. And with this grandeur can come contempt. Like many sins, selfishness is the culprit. Be determined to take pride out. To take contempt out. To take contention out.
Some biblical translations read, "Blessed are those who work for or make peace." It is an effort. And you can win. Sixteen New Testament books mention living with peace and unity. This is what God wants us to work for.
In conclusion, let’s live Matthew 5:16 in each of our interactions, thoughts, and deeds--and life will get a lot more peaceful: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
