We started studying the Beatitudes this morning in Bible Study and when we got to verse 5, Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God, the question was asked, “how do we become peacemakers when we have such hot topics of discussion in our world today?”
It occurred to me that we, as a society, culture and people, tend to tie our identities, who we are, to our ideals and beliefs, whether political, religious or societal. We can’t let our differences in belief overshadow the fact that we are all still human, people and most important of all created by God in His image. There’s nothing wrong with disagreeing with others on ideals and beliefs, but we have to remember to love the person and not necessarily the idea. We can be promoters of peace by remembering that the person is more important that the issue. Forming or maintaining the relationship is more important than burning a bridge.
Paul tells us in Romans 10:12-13, For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Paul tells us a couple of chapters later in Romans 12:16 and 18, 16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. and 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.
Granted, it is incredibly difficult to live at peace with everyone, even Paul had a disagreement and went separate ways from Barnabas. But striving to be at peace with everyone takes a lot of humility. I don’t believe it means we will agree with everyone we come across all the time, we’re people with a bent towards sin and selfishness, but we should put aside those selfish desires and strive to seek God’s will and wisdom in these situations. If we humble ourselves and seek His wisdom and understanding, God will show up and reveal Himself and His will to us.
I believe humility is the key to this and the rest of the beatitudes, recognizing who we are in relation to God and understanding He is much bigger than we are and one of our goals is, as a pastor I listen to says, to enhance His reputation for His glory and honor, and until we get humility right we’re going to struggle with the rest. You never know, in some of these discussions, you may be a great opportunity for the other person to see and hear about Jesus.
Lord Jesus, clothe me in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Let me put on Love.
Lord, search my heart and examine my mind. Give me strength to turn from sin and wicked ways.
Lord, sanctify me, purify me entirely, remove the dross from me so I may dwell in your presence so others may see you in me.
JER2913 