Serenity Saturday Peace Is Possible
Saturday June 25, 2016
When we eventually come to that place where we live in peace with others around us, we may still encounter a person who is hostile. Despite loving comments and gestures they insult us or accuse us and just go out of their way to irritate and hurt us. How should we respond? How can we maintain peace? God knows these situations will arise and so we are given some helpful advice in the Bible about living at peace with everyone.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18 NIV)
The first phrase in the above verse is: "If it is possible". This indicates that there may be times when peace with another person is not possible. The person may not be interested in a peaceful environment, or, they may even enjoy causing other people harm. What are we to do? Our responsibility is to maintain peace in our own heart. We remember and hold fast to God’s kindness to us and keep our thoughts filled with kindness, goodness and forgiveness towards the other person. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. (James 3:17-18 NLT)
The second phrase in the above verse is, "as far as it depends on you". We are not meant to co-dependently prop up someone in their sinful or harmful behaviour or attitude. We can walk away from a person who is being belligerent. Unfortunately, sometimes we walk away with irritation and condemnation in our hearts. In this situation, God’s desire for us is that we bring our hearts before Him, asking Him for healing and comfort and peace. When we have settled our hearts, we should pray for the other person that they would grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord Jesus and receive His grace, mercy and peace.
When people’s lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them. (Proverbs 16:7 NLT)
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