Are you a Peacemaker?

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Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
-- Matthew 5:9 (NIV)

True peace isn’t just the absence of conflict; it comes from the presence of Christ in our lives. But when conflicts arise around us, do we step into the role of the peacemaker, or do we let the problems stress us out?

The biblical concept of peace (shalom) goes beyond just the absence of conflict; it encompasses wholeness, justice, and righteousness, and this is what peacemakers strive to bring into the surrounding lives. Jesus distinguishes between “peacekeepers,” who avoid conflict, and “peacemakers,” who actively work to resolve it. In Biblical terms, peacemakers actively move toward reconciliation in a spirit of humility and grace, rather than avoiding conflict out of fear or discomfort.

As peacemakers, we reflect God’s heart, bringing reconciliation and hope into broken relationships. Peacemaking involves stepping into difficult situations with humility, grace, and truth to resolve conflict and promote unity, which is a divine work started by Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Learn to speak the truth in love. We need to speak the truth and hold to our convictions but do so in a way that honors God and shows love to others.

When we sow peace, we reveal our identity as God’s children. Begin by inviting God into the conflicts and commit to the hard work of making peace, trusting that something greater can be achieved when God is part of the equation. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV); “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

Questions for Reflection:

1. How do you reflect God's heart when it comes to being a peacemaker?

2. How can you best honor God and hold onto your convictions when faced with a situation that is anything but peaceful?