One of the greatest responsibilities of a Christian is to be a peacemaker as described in the bible. There is so much hatred, anger, jealousy and misunderstanding among people in this world. Relations between family members deteriorate, between friends, and even among believers, pride can make relationships fall apart. But God has called us to live in peace with each other. Jesus spoke those words in the Bible, in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be called the children of God. This verse is so moving to me because we as children of God are to bring peace, not trouble.
There are lessons I have learned, and being a peacemaker is not easy. There are times when people insult us, misunderstand us or when they offend us greatly. We might want to retaliate or hold onto to our anger. The Bible, however, tells us otherwise. In Romans 12:18, the Apostle Paul the Apostle said, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” This means, when it is hard, I must avoid conflict and pursue peace as well.
An experience I had once that taught me the importance of being a peacemaker was… There was one time I had a misunderstanding with somebody very close to me. We didn't talk for a few days, and in all truth, my heart was heavy. I couldn't stop thinking about the hurtful words that had been said. I felt that at first was right, and I didn't want to resolve this issue. In my prayer time and Bible Study, however, I recalled the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you.” It was that scripture that humbled me. I decided to phone that person and speak peacefully with him. Both of us apologized to each other and peace came back. It's a lesson I learned when I tried to have peace, it brings healing. Pride just brings pain.
The Bible also instructs us in Hebrews 12:14 to “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” This indicates that peace is related to our relationship with God. If someone is constantly stirring up strife and strife, hatred, and division, he or she is not operating in the Spirit of God. We must be patient with others, quickly forgive and speak gently as Christians.
I still have so much to learn every day as a better peacemaker, personally. Sometimes it takes silence, humility and sacrifice. But I know when I choose peace, it is pleasing to God. Peacemaker is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of strength, for it takes strength to choose love over hatred. I want to live a life that brings peace to my world, and draw others to God through peace and kindness, in a world of conflict.