How to Be a Peacemaker
Once a month I write a letter to the wonderful Prayer for Prodigals community I am part of. Often those letters, though specific to those who love a prodigal, apply to any or all of us in the challenging circumstances of life.
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Loving a prodigal can be like a war zone. Or a tornado. Or just chaos.
If you live with that person, it’s even worse.
Actually, living in our world today is much the same: war zone, tornado, chaos.
We wish—in our homes and in our world—for calm, safety, kindness, love, hope.
We wish for Peace.
Friends of the Prince of Peace
Gratefully, we are personal friends with the Prince of Peace. And He is willing to share that peace with us. He will impart peace deep inside us, beside still waters, or in the midst of a hurricane. Peace is mentioned 249 times in God’s Word. Just reflect on these few verses and claim these words from our God:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
“…the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:26)
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:8)
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. (Isaiah 26:3)
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (Colossians 3:15)
Becoming a peacemaker
And then comprehend this: He will share His supernatural peace giving with us. He will make us Peacemakers and Peacegivers.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. (Matthew 5:9)
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Romans 14:19)
God has called us to live in peace. (1 Corinthians 7:15)
Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:3)
Live in peace with each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:13)
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; (Hebrews 12:14)
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. (James 3:18)
Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Corinthians 13:11)
We are on assignment from Jesus Himself, empowered by His Holy Spirit in us, to bring peace to our homes, to our relationships with loved prodigals, and even to our world.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
How about you? Where could you bring peace?
c2021 Judy Douglass