Re-Center Around God
Peacemakers: Author Kent Hughes describes peacemakers in contrast to what he calls their opposites: troublemakers, people who are mean-spirited, who stir up strife or create conflict.
Troublemakers don’t often reflect the character of Jesus. Of course, Jesus caused His share of trouble, as will many peacemakers too. But He didn’t cause it through gossip and rumor; nor should we.
One other thing about peace: Wanting peace and being at peace are not the same. Yes, the Apostle Paul tells us to "live at peace with everyone". But taking in the whole verse, he writes:
Romans 12:18
If possible, as far depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Let’s be honest, sometimes peace doesn’t materialize. Some people just refuse to be at peace with you. Sometimes it isn’t possible. BUT – and this is an important BUT – “as far as it depends on you” does NOT merely mean “I tried once, now it’s on them!”
Prayerfully ponder during your review if you got more work to do.
Journal Prompt:
Write some pondered thoughts about your work as a peacemaker or the work you need to do as a peacemaker.
Review
Am I a peacemaker? A troublemaker? Neither? Do I seek peace? Do I look for trouble? Do I avoid conflict in a way that creates tension rather than peace?
Repent if Necessary
Review key relationships with the Lord (family, work, etc.) and ask for His perspective on your interactions with those people in your world. Don’t cheat by skipping any strained associations. Apologize to God for speaking negatively to or about others, for avoiding certain people, or for causing trouble for others.
Return (as necessary)
Ask Jesus to give you a right heart and spirit toward all people. Revisit God’s extreme kindness in reconciling you to Himself – and let that serve as motivation to improve your own peace-making desires.
As far depends on you, how are you doing in terms of living at peace with everyone?
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
Psalm 119:105-112 14th letter: Nuun (נ)
- Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path. - I have taken an oath and confirmed it,
that I will follow your righteous laws. - I have suffered much;
preserve my life, Lord, according to your word. - Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth,
and teach me your laws. - Though I constantly take my life in my hands,
I will not forget your law. - The wicked have set a snare for me,
but I have not strayed from your precepts. - Your statutes are my heritage forever;
they are the joy of my heart. - My heart is set on keeping your decrees
to the very end.
Read the verses of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Ephesians 6:16-17
Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
The Promise
Isaiah 40:31
Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Pondering Point
The Apostle Paul reminds Timothy that the devil himself sets traps for people. Don’t forget this. Are you susceptible to traps? Easily enticed or lured in?