Articles
Strive for Peace
As we study our roles as Heirs with Christ this year, we will look to Hebrews 12:14 as an application verse of what this position entails. This article will focus on the first component: striving for peace.
Last year, we considered what it means for God's children to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). That same responsibility motivates the heirs of the kingdom of God to live in peace. You see, the child of God and those with a claim to the inheritance of Christ have a peace that surpasses human comprehension (Philippians 4:7). If that's true, then the Christian is in a unique position to show the world around him/her what real peace looks like.
In encouraging the brethren in Rome, Paul explains how the Christian's love demonstrates itself. His points are neatly summized in Romans 12:18: whether dealing with a spiritual brother or sister or one's worst enemy, we aim to be at peace. Look at some of the other key words in the context of the last portion of Romans 12: genuine, honor, zeal, hospitality, harmony, humility, overcome. These traits illustrate the Christian's tender heart and humble mind which are set on unity and mutual blessing (1 Peter 3:8-9). This Christian is engaged in the work of peacemaking.
It's worth stating that this is not peace with all at any cost. The only peace that's worth any cost is peace with God. This is where the "so far as it depends on you" aspect kicks in; if we are devoted to sound doctrine--that is, pure and unadulterated gospel truth--then we will not compromise on matters where God has spoken His will for us. If a decision comes down to peace with God versus peace with the world, our relationship with our Father always takes precedence.
No matter where you currently stand, there is always ground to be made in growing as a peacemaker. Take the Thessalonians for instance (1 Thessalonians 4:9-12): they had been taught by God how to love one another and their spiritual family throughout Macedonia. Yet they were urged to do this "more and more." What did that look like, exactly? Aspiring to a quite (or peaceable) life. Minding each one's own affairs. Working with one's hands. These practices all position the Christian to walk properly before those who assess the Christian lifestyle by the examples they see in those who have adopted it.
Is your heart restless today? What troubles distress your mind and keep you up at night? There is no better life than to live as an heir with Christ (John 10:10); first seek peace with God. Then seek peace with your spiritual family. Finally, show the world around you what living for the Prince of Peace looks like.
