Equipped to Make Peace

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Matthew 5:9 (NIV)

Jesus says that those who are “peacemakers” are blessed. 

What does Jesus mean, how are you to bring peace?

The biblical concept of “peace” is the Hebrew word “shalom.” It does not mean the absence of conflict, but the presence of wholeness, safety, and complete well-being of the person and the community. A peacemaker bravely declares the terms of God that make you secure and fulfilled. Knowing and declaring God’s truth makes you a peacemaker. 

You are not blessed just by wanting peace, talking about peace, or hoping for peace. You are blessed by making peace. The greatest way you can be a peacemaker is by helping others around you reconcile with God through Jesus Christ. Look for opportunities to bravely share the terms of God that make us whole – the gospel of Jesus Christ.

You can also help bring peace to fractured friendships and family relationships. Peacemaking is hard and messy work. You will endure pain and pay a price. Making peace looks like letting go of having things your way, and instead humbly working toward wholeness for the sake of others. And you don’t do this hard and holy work alone – the Holy Spirit gives you peace, and the power to make peace.

Peacemaking doesn’t mean that you will always get along with everyone or that you have to agree with every opinion. The Apostle Paul said in Romans 12:18, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Making peace does not mean making someone agree or like you. It simply means you operate from a place of peace and engage with the desire for unity. 

When you do, Jesus promises a reward: “...for they will be called children of God.” When you work to reconcile someone to God or try again to make peace with your spouse or child, you look and act like your Heavenly Father. And He claims you as His own. 

God’s peace is always available to make you secure and to help you bring unity to your relationships. As you make peace, may the world and those close to you say: “You are just like your Father.”

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for being the ultimate Peacemaker by bringing the truth of Your Word to heal me. Help me follow in Your footsteps, sharing Your truth with those who may feel far from You, doing all I can to make peace and pursue unity. In the name of Jesus, amen.