"Blessed Are the Peacemakers,..."

 As we continue our study of the Beattitudes in Matthew, we continue with the subject of peace.

Matthew 5:9 NIV

[9]  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

In this verse, the Holy Spirit showed me something that I have never noticed before. Here it says "peaceMAKER," NOT peaceKEEPER.

As children of God, it says we will be happy when we MAKE peace, not just keep the peace.

We resolve conflicts in relationships, in interactions with others. We work to resolve disputes and arguments and all kinds of troubles and difficulties that we encounter. We work to make peace wherever we go. 

I always thought this meant to keep the peace, to avoid conflict. No. It means to make peace in the midst of all kinds of conflict that we find ourselves in the middle of. Then, people will know we are children of God. So cool!!

One key verse here that summarizes this is at the end of Romans 12:

Romans 12:21 NIV

[21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

See? Overcome evil, such as conflict, strife, anger, fights, brawling, slandering, arguing with goodness. This makes peaceful interactions with others. This brings peace. 

So, while we want to avoid conflict, sometimes we can't, and therefore have to resolve conflict and diffuse a situation and MAKE peace. Be a peaceMAKER. So cool.

With the Holy Spirit bearing His fruit of peace through us, we can do this. As we walk in the Spirit, we can MAKE peace wherever we go. We CAN overcome evil with good.

Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

[22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 

As Jesus says here, we'll be happy if we do so, and people will know we are God's children.

Let's look at some scriptures now:

James 3:17-18 NIV

[17] But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. [18] Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

Psalms 37:37 NIV

[37] Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace.

This is so awesome dear readers:

Titus 3:1-8 NIV

[1] Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, [2] to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone. [3] At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. [4] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, [5] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, [6] whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, [7] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. [8] This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

Isaiah 26:3-4 NIV

[3] You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. [4] Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.

John 14:26-27 NIV

[26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. [27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Colossians 3:15 NIV

[15] Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Proverbs 3:1-2 NIV

[1] My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, [2] for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.

Hebrews 12:14 NIV

[14] Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

Romans 12:18 NIV

[18] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 

See? If you want to be happy, MAKE peace wherever you go.

Love you all dear readers,

Jeffrey Post