Peace
The
dawn of each new year is greeted with boisterous celebrations and hopeful
prayers for peace. Yet, as long as there is sin in the world, wars will
continue and even the best relationship may fail. As God's ambassadors
on this plane, we are to be peacemakers, mediating differences and even
squelching gossip. In this way we are demonstrating God's love to others
within our individual spheres of influence. The Bible also tells us to
keep our personal lives peaceful, for we cannot demonstrate peace if we're
not living it.
As Christians, we
experience peace with God because we are no longer his enemies. Jesus
made peace for us. The world is our enemy now. Jesus promised to leave
us his peace and his Holy Spirit (see Holy Spirit).
Personal peace comes
to the Christian in the most unusual circumstances. Even in the most unusual
circumstances. Even in the midst of serious troubles, we can know the
settled assurance and quietness of heart that comes from resting (see
Rest) in God.
We are to
be peacemakers in our personal lives as well as promote peace among others.
As long as there is unresolved conflict within the church, God's will
cannot be done.
Matthew 5:9,24
Acts 7:26
Romans 12:18
2 Corinthians 13:11
It is because of Jesus Christ's death on the cross that we are
reconciled with God the Father and have peace with him.
Ephesians 2:16
Colossians 1:20
2 Corinthians 5:19
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