Peace

Peace

How can I make peace with others?

God’s Response

Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11

Always keep yourselves united in the Holy Spirit, and bind yourselves together with peace. Ephesians 4:3

Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. . . . Do your part to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:17-18

Too often we react to differences of opinion with the swords we know as our tongues. Angry debates, insults, accusations, verbal manipulation, and character assassination are some of the ways we try to make ourselves and our agenda the “winner.” But the victory isn’t worth it. Too many people are wounded, too many relationships are hurt. Constructive disagreements are essential to deep relationships, but conflict that divides the church breaks God’s heart. This misdirects energy that should be spent on discipleship, evangelism, worship, and missions. It also sabotages our witness to the world (John 17:20-23). Express your opinions in a way that honors and serves those who differ from you (Proverbs 12:18).

God’s Challenge

Work hard at living in peace with others. Psalm 34:14