Are You a Peacemaker? Post #30

Life comes at us rapidly. We  respond in numerous ways, peacefully or with anxiety. Remember learning in high school Isaac Newton’s Third Law: “For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” Our faith is demonstrated in how we respond to good news or bad news that may surprise us, even blind side us.  This lesson is a hard one for me to learn, and I sure have messed up in the past. I’m trying to be a peacemaker.

We weren’t promised an easy road.  It is comforting to know we WERE promised a Companion in God who overcomes the world.

“- But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered…I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.'” –John 16:32a, 33NIV84.

This past week we experienced “trouble” when we found out my co-worker’s young adult child suddenly passed away.  The memorial service is this week. Our office, with much prayer, right now seems peaceful. When she returns to work, our desire is to serve as peacemakers for her and each other, to anyone we meet.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted….Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will called sons of God.” –Matthew 5:4, 9 NIV84

What “trouble” has life placed in your path? How are you reacting? Peace comes from the Holy Spirit and is not accomplished in our own will. God grants us peace.

We are given two ears and one mouth for a reason. Let’s listen twice as much as we speak. When life presents a smooth road or “trouble,” let’s pray about our circumstances. Let’s praise God for our circumstances and pray daily to be a peacemaker.  It may seem difficult to pray that way at first, but I promise, it gets easier. May the “equal and opposite reaction” to life’s actions be peaceful. Be encouraged.

Reflect:

–What are you experiencing today? Do you have peace? Please comment.

Renew:

—“The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.” –Psalm 29:11 NIV84

–“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” –Philippians 4:6-7 NIV84

Recharge:

–How can your prayers and attitude change to accept your circumstances, becoming more peaceful, more content? Please comment.