When we’re peace lovers, it generally means we’re looking out for our own interests. We desire for things to be peaceful, and we love it when they are, but we don’t do anything about it when that peace disappears. When we’re peacemakers, we’re committed to making that peace happen. Making peace isn’t easy. We can end up in the middle of a conflict between people, and that can mean we become the target. Sometimes it’s easier to live with the conflict, than face the potential problems that come through working for reconciliation. When we’re peace makers, we have to hear both sides of the story and try to understand it from both points of view. We need God’s wisdom to know what to say, and when to say it, in order to encourage people to talk to each other and to bring about peace in the situation. The Bible says: ‘If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone’ (Romans 12:18 NIV). That means we have to learn to be able to interact positively with people who think differently to us. We don’t have to change our views or our message, but sometimes it means we have to change our approach. True peacemaking begins in the heart, not the head. The Bible says: ‘Love never fails’ (1 Corinthians 13:8 NKJV). When people feel loved and understood, they take down their barriers and begin to connect with one another. And when that happens, it can not only resolve the issue, but heal hearts and minds. Jesus said: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.’ So let’s be peace makers in the world today.

What Now?

Think of a situation which requires peace. Ask God for wisdom and insight to know the best way to help people move towards peace.