“The peacemakers are blessed, for they will be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9 )
The Importance of Making Peace With Others:
It keeps me in fellowship with God.
It helps my prayer life.
It makes me joyful.
“And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace..” (James 3:18 )
How To Live Peacefully With Others:
- Pray for wisdom.
“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5 )
- Take the initiative.
“23 So if you are offering your gift on the altar, and there you remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24 )
- Own up to your part.
“What is the source of wars and fights among you? Don’t they come from the cravings that are at war within you?” (James 4:1 )
- Listen for their perspective and hurt.
“My dearly loved brothers, understand this: Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger …” (James 1:19 )
- Speak the truth courteously.
“No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29 )
- Attack the problem, not the person!
“But now you must also put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth.” (Colossians 3:8 )
- Make reconciliation, not resolution, your goal.
Reconciliation: reestablish the relationship.
Resolution: resolve every issue.