Text- Isaiah 26:3 – “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusts in thee.”
We talk about peace all the time, but how many people have actually taken up peace as a personal responsibility? Truth is, peace is a duty that each and every person owes the whole of humanity.
You see, peace is a responsibility that we have to those who we come in contact with every day. If everyone understands this and commits to do their part, world peace will be a reality. But sadly, there is almost no chance that this will ever happen.
I mentioned in the first part of this topic that there are seven legs on which perfect peace rests. We have discussed three of them in the past few days:
Be at peace with God
Be at peace with yourself
Hold your peace in the storm
Today, we will discuss the fourth:
4. FOLLOW PEACE WITH ALL MEN
There are times in life that you will meet people who want any other thing but peace; and ultimately, you may find yourself embroiled with them. If this happens, you have a choice to make – either to pay them back in their own coin, or to pursue peace.
As Christians, we are commanded to go the peace-way. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 12:14, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man can see God”.
Paul furthermore admonishes in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men”. In other words, as much as it lies within our power, we must pursue peace and live peaceably with all men.
I like the part where Paul said, “As much as depends on you”… Never ever let it happen that you were the one who started a fight. And again, if anyone brings a fight to your doorstep, always find ways to settle amicably.
There will however, be people who will not yield to any peace move. That’s not your fault, so long as you can boldly beat your chest and say “I did my very best to make peace”.
Paul also had few of those kinds of people. One of them was Alexander the coppersmith, whom he said did him much evil. When your paths cross with such people, don’t hate on them, or insist on getting even. Seek to make peace, as much as you possibly can.
As you go out today, say no to quarrels and fights; avoid strife and contentions; don’t hit back at those who hurt you; as much as possible, get along with everybody. As much as depends on you beloved, live peaceably with all men.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me perfect peace. I ask for grace to reflect that peace as I go out today, and every day of my life. Father, help me to live peaceably with all men, as much as depends on me in Jesus Name.
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