Make Peace
Updated: Feb 10, 2020
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” Matthew 5:9
Growing up, part of the culture of my family was to keep the peace. Don't say anything. Don't confront an issue. Sweep things under the rug. Don't cause waves. Don't make a scene. Keep the peace. Keep the peace at all costs. Even if it costs you inner peace.
Often, people will site the Bible as support for keeping the peace. God promises us peace. Jesus told the storm to be at peace. We should have peace. But, when we look closer at the word of God, we find that God doesn’t instruct us to keep the peace but to make peace. Real peace. Lasting peace. Peace that comes from Him, who is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
Sometimes, making peace means that we have to work through our issues, confront what’s causing disruption, and lift up the rug to let out whatever junk is building up and keeping us from having genuine peace. Making peace means that we have to let things go, forgive, and extend grace. Making peace might be speaking God's truth, taking captive our thoughts, or choosing the way of righteousness. Making peace happens when we allow God to renew our minds and transform our hearts.
Do you make peace or keep peace? I know what it’s like to feel the pressure and burden of trying to keep the peace. Of being in the middle and trying to keep everyone happy. To do your best to keep the water from boiling over. But that type of pseudo peace isn’t usually God-honoring, nor in line with God’s will. God wants us to experience victory, reconciliation and to do our best to make real peace with everyone.
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14
When I lack peace, I feel it and it weighs heavy on my heart and mind. Lack of peace leaves my mind running and distracted and takes me away from what truly needs my attention. When you feel your peace has been disrupted, go to God and ask Him to guide your steps and to help usher in real peace. We deserve peace. That is one of many gifts Jesus has given us. Peace. We don’t have to live life experiencing disharmony and aggravations. When Scripture talks about God giving us abundant lives, peace is very much part of that abundance.
Don’t miss out on the peace that God has for you. Let go, forgive, pray, seek His wisdom and guidance, make real peace with your family, your friends, your fellow sisters and brothers in Christ. Make peace in your workplace, and be an example of what Godly peace is all about.
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
Living in peace isn’t about denying reality or ignoring what needs tending to, rather it is about taking prayerful and righteous steps to shed light on difficult circumstances so that God’s peace can take root in your heart, your mind, and whatever you are going through. Listen and be a doer of God's word to seek peace and pursue it with your whole heart (1 Peter 3:11). Take hold of the peace that Jesus has given you and let it permeate every aspect of your being because regardless of your circumstances, you can still be at peace when you put your trust in God.
>>Suggested readings: Matthew 5, John 14, Isaiah 26, Psalm 85
Let us pray
Lord, we are often inclined to keep the peace, or give way to anger rather than making peace. Remind us that You are the Prince of Peace and that we were made to be in peace. Thank You for leaving us with a peace that surpasses all understanding. Thank You for giving us a peace that is not dependent on our circumstances, but putting our faith in You. Let peace reign in our hearts, in our minds, in our marriages, in our families, in our workplaces, in our ministries, in our relationships. Let peace reign. And teach us to be makers of peace by Your strength and wisdom. Amen.
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