Make Peace When Others Won’t

by Dan Behrens on October 10, 2020  |  Evergreen Foursquare Church

“It is one thing to view the land of peace from a wooded ridge; quite another to tread the road that leads there.” -St. Augustine [excerpt from Surprised By Joy by C.S. Lewis]

“I have dwelt too long with those who hate peace. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.” -Psalm 120

The bible gives us many examples of either a command, a charge, even a plea for the people of God (i.e. the Christian) to pursue peace. Or, if peace is not readily found, to make peace. In fact, we are to make peace when others won’t. Jesus calls this endeavor blessed—“blessed are the peacemakers,” he says. Matthew 5

Having said this, there are also a great many examples in the bible of persons who made peace their genuine goal and suffered mightily for it. A sobering contrast. The one who makes for peace typically receives very little of it, typically receives the constant nag of scrutiny, cynicism, mischaracterization, and even insult. Yet again, Jesus calls you blessed. That is way of the Christ; what some might describe as foolishness. “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, for I have overcome the world.” John 16

There is nothing foolish about the miracles of God experienced most noticeably by others than when you make peace your true goal. They may not receive it. They may outright reject it. May even even harm you in return. But they will not deceived. Peace is that kind of offering that is unmistakably apparent. Much more shrewd are her preparations for an unshakeable bridge—forgiveness, acceptance, trust, compassion, pure affection. As for these, time will tell. But first comes peace, either readily present or something born of your great effort. “For the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.” -James 3