Matthew 5:9
Is it possible to be a peacemaker in our world today? It certainly seems impossible in light of our current situation. Yet, Jesus said that those who seek peace, work for peace or are peacemakers, would be called children of God. Shouldn’t that give us motivation to seek peace? A peacemaker is someone who seeks peace between God and humans but also between one person and another. This is not an easy thing to do.
A person who tries to be a peacemaker is often disappointed. Why is that? In order to make peace, we have to give up our selfish motives. Not many people are willing to lay down whatever they are seeking in order to create peace. I’m not talking about laying down what is right and good. It will not always be peaceful to do what is right. Just look at what Jesus had to face. What I am talking about are those goals that are selfish in nature and not grounded in love for the lost or in the building up of people. Aren't those the kind of things that usually lead to the destruction of peace? It is when we want to promote ourselves rather than consider what God wants. To be a peacemaker we must move ourselves out of the picture and allow God's nature to rule our lives. Only then can we offer what is truly the best of each of us to others.
Do you want to change the world around you? Seek to live a peaceful life. Work for peace. This will put a song in your heart for today.
Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin?
The blood of Jesus whispers peace within.
Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed?
To do the will of Jesus, this is rest.
Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round?
On Jesus' bosom naught but calm is found.
Peace, perfect peace, 'mid suffering's sharpest throes?
The sympathy of Jesus beaches repose.
