Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. ~ Matthew 5:9
READING: Ephesians 2:13-21
I read recently that since the beginning of recorded history, the entire world has been at peace less than 8 per cent of the time! Something like 8,000 peace treaties have been made and broken during that time.
Peace in the Bible means more than the absence of conflict. Real peace starts with being right with God, which brings peace with other people. And Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isa. 9:6).
Christ’s peace is not the weak, temporary and compromising peace the world offers. His peace is strong, eternal, and founded in the holy love of God. Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword” (Mt. 10:34).
Because, the truth is, “There is no peace,” says the Lord, “for the wicked” (Isa. 48:22). That’s why the world needs new churches. Christ’s peace comes because of the work of the cross. “For in him [Christ] all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell and through him to reconcile to himself all things…making peace by the blood of his cross” (Col. 1:19, 20).
So how do we “make peace?” First, before we consider ourselves peacemakers, let’s make sure we are “peace-receivers” – that we have personally tasted, savored, and been comforted by the peace of God!
Second, pray for peace. Paul taught us to seek peace by praying for government leaders (cf. I Tim. 2:1, 2). But church planters must also be intercessors, praying for families, marriages and children in our churches, as well as the souls in our community.
Third, preach the gospel. It called the “gospel of peace” (Eph. 6:15). Only faith in Christ brings real peace!
Lord, Thank You for peace in Christ. Make me a peacemaker today. Amen.
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