It seems like more and more people are talking about peace these days. I know I have been thinking about it more than ever. With the rise in people experiencing anxiety, loneliness, depression, fear, and guilt no wonder this seems to be the topic of books and conversations.
No one would argue the need for more peace in our lives. It would make us all a lot happier if we felt like our lives were under control and we could breath. The question is, how do we experience more peace?
Jesus made a short statement in the Sermon on the Mount that gives us a clue:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9 (ESV)
That is an interesting term, “peacemakers.” It almost makes it sound like Jesus is telling us that peace isn’t something that will necessarily just happen to us. It is something that we create or make. Here is how it is stated in the New Living Translation:
“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.”
So in every situation in life you have a choice. Am I going to make peace or something else. Of course, it seems obvious that we would all like to make peace, but how? Here are some suggestions that I hope can help you.
SETTLE ARGUMENTS
There is nothing that sucks peace out of us more than having something between you and another person.
If you made a mistake, say you’re sorry, ask for forgiveness and work on reestablishing the relationship.
STAY AWAY FROM ARGUMENTS
You don’t have to get involved in every discussion, especially online. Stay away from spaces that are just going to suck you into negativity and fighting.
LISTEN MORE THAN YOU TALK
Be curious about people and what opinions they have. Try and learn from people you disagree with. Be humble and realize that you may be wrong about the subject matter being discussed.
LOVE PEOPLE MORE THAN WINNING
If you win an argument but lose a friend, was it worth it? I say no.
Accept the challenge today to be a peacemaker. It is challenging but Jesus did not come to ask us to do easy things. He asked us to become a loving community. You can help that happen by being a peacemaker today.
