Living in a Foreign World 6

 Being a Peacemaker

We are currently discussing how to live in this foreign world and not be a part of it. One of the things God wants us to be as His children are peacemakers. In His famous “Sermon on the Mount,” Yeshua, or as translated, Jesus said this.

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

Before Jesus left us He said this.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

What does it mean? We are tasked with this.

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 12:18

And here?

“So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” Romans 14:19

What does all this mean and how do we do this in the crazy and sinful world in which we live?

Focus on what you can control. While the outcome might be beyond your influence, you can control your actions and reactions. The Bible emphasizes this.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.." Philippians 4:6-7

Focus on responding with peace, even if the situation is tense. Remember the world reacts to and adheres to the wisdom of the world. We do not. We have better wisdom.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.

But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.”

Look here, what does it say?

“And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” James 3:13-18

Practice empathy and understanding. Try to see things from the perspective of others involved. The Bible tells us to,

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.." Philippians 2:3

Understanding different viewpoints can foster compassion and reduce hostility. However, this does not include accepting, or most definitely not, glorifying sin. Rather, if you understand how they see their lives and their sin, you can better help them with the truth.

Plant seeds of peace. Even small gestures can contribute to a more peaceful atmosphere. This could involve showing kindness to someone on the opposing side, offering encouragement, or simply listening without judgment. We do not always have to assault people with the Truth. As they perceive thumping them in the head with the Bible, sometimes it is wiser to remain silent and listen. I know that is a whole other sermon, but I think you get the point.

Be a role model for peace. How you conduct yourself matters. By acting with respect, patience, and a calm demeanor, you can inspire others to do the same. The Bible instructs us to do this.

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;" Philippians 4:4-5

Remember, you may be the only “Jesus” that some people will ever see. What do they see?

And finally, Pray for peace. A prayer is a powerful tool. Even if you can't control the outcome, you can surrender the situation to a higher power and ask for peace to prevail. The Bible is full of verses about the power of prayer.

What does the world see when it sees you? A child of God? A form of Jesus? Sadly, this is far more common. Does the world see one of its own? Are you going to church on Sunday and leaving the building only to get drunk at the neighborhood BBQ? Are you Praising Jesus and cursing your fellow man? Look what James tries to teach us about our tongue in James 3.

“With it, we bless our Lord and Father, and with it, we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and saltwater? Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water.” James 3:9-12

We must become more like Yeshua, like Jesus. We have to become more like our Father. We are His children and no longer belong to the world. Why should we continue to act like the world?

The ministry of Jesus: Jesus's teachings and actions throughout the Gospels promote peace, love, and forgiveness. We can look at examples like the “Sermon on the Mount” where Jesus teaches conflict resolution.

Finally, we can bring the concept of peacemaking into our own lives. How can we actively pursue peace in our relationships, communities, and world?

Here are some questions to think about.

How can we identify our own biases that might hinder peacemaking? If you are hating on someone or a group, then how can you bring love to them? Again, there is a big difference between loving them and accepting the sin.

What are some practical steps we can take to resolve conflict peacefully? Learn from Jesus. Read His words. Follow His examples.

How can we promote peace in situations where we have no control over the outcome? Start with you.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

Of course, this all starts with your adoption.

Say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be, say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray.

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Yeshua's sacrifice for me. I believed He rose from the dead. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Yeshua, Amen!"

That's it. It is that simple. Now tell someone what you have just done. "That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Yeshua, and shalt believe in your heart that God hath raised him from the dead, You shall be saved." Romans 10:9. You need to find a Church that God leads you to and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A New Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."Colossians 3:10

The email, if you wish to contact me, is truthbygod1@gmail.com

May the comfort of the Holy Ghost, and the peace of our Lord Yeshua, be with you all. May God bless and be with you, always.

Until next time, be blessed, be a blessing, and Yeshua is Lord!