THE COST OF PEACE
Matthew 5:9
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."
Peace-making is hard work. It demands that I give up my right to be right in order to bring reconciliation, without sacrificing my integrity. There are some who do not want peace. The Psalmist knew this truth. He wrote, "I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war" (Psalm 120:7). Any efforts to make peace with such people are bound to fail, as is evidence by Israel and the extremists who vow to destroy the Jews. There will never be peace in the Middle East until the Prince of Peace comes and sets up His kingdom of peace. So Paul wrote, "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceable with all men" (Romans 12:18). We also read, "Pursue peace with all men" (Hebrews 12:14). This is actively striving for peace. When I pursue peace, I am reflecting the Lord Jesus, Who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14). He gave up all His rights, even giving His life, in order to make peace – to reconcile man to God. The person who pursues peace is exhibiting his position as a son of God.
TODAY'S PRINCIPLE: God calls His people to be peacemakers, even at the expense of their own rights.
[end]
Have a peace-filled day. Love you.
Matthew 5:9
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."
Peace-making is hard work. It demands that I give up my right to be right in order to bring reconciliation, without sacrificing my integrity. There are some who do not want peace. The Psalmist knew this truth. He wrote, "I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war" (Psalm 120:7). Any efforts to make peace with such people are bound to fail, as is evidence by Israel and the extremists who vow to destroy the Jews. There will never be peace in the Middle East until the Prince of Peace comes and sets up His kingdom of peace. So Paul wrote, "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceable with all men" (Romans 12:18). We also read, "Pursue peace with all men" (Hebrews 12:14). This is actively striving for peace. When I pursue peace, I am reflecting the Lord Jesus, Who is our peace (Ephesians 2:14). He gave up all His rights, even giving His life, in order to make peace – to reconcile man to God. The person who pursues peace is exhibiting his position as a son of God.
TODAY'S PRINCIPLE: God calls His people to be peacemakers, even at the expense of their own rights.
[end]
Have a peace-filled day. Love you.
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