Wednesday; November 4

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

We live in a world that likes controversy. People enjoy stirring the pot. We like to be heard – often to the point of shouting down others. Sure, we like it when then there is agreement, just as long as people agree with me. Folks, it is fun to be on the winning side, but there is something even more important – we need to be God’s ambassadors of peace to the world. I guess we can make a claim that God needs soldiers; but did you notice that Jesus didn’t bless warriors, He spoke kindly of peacemakers? Have you ever wondered why? Could it be that the reason is that the thing by which Jesus disciples will be known is not power, but love! God has the might to make right, what He needs on earth are people who are willing to bring peace and love to those who need to come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Having the proper agenda might influence people to become disciples of Jesus, but the most overwhelming influence we have is our love.
Being a peacemaker involves several skills including caring more about people than issues. It involves an understanding of our beliefs, not just so we can argue, but so that we can compromise on all those things that aren’t vital to righteousness and build bridges to the relatively few make-or-break principles. Making peace starts with listening to understand people rather than hearing merely to debate a point.
When we stand before the Great Peacemaker in judgment will He find us to be people of peace or conveyers of conflict? Let’s keep in mind that God was so interested in making peace with His creation that He sent His Holy Son to sacrifice Himself and lay the groundwork for eternal peace. Now, just how blessed are the peacemakers?
Think About It!

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