PURSUE PEACE WITH ALL PEOPLE
Those who are at peace with God through faith in Jesus are to “pursue peace with all people.” Peace is the third member of the first triad of the fruit of the Spirit: “Love, joy, peace” (Gal. 5:22). Therefore, peace is one of the key attributes of those who are filled with the Spirit. It is a mark of the “holiness,” or sanctification, that we have received salvation through Christ and that the Spirit of Christ abides in us.
Although we have peace with God, we must pursue it with others. For the world is not at peace with God, therefore it wars against Him and even against itself. We should not be surprised that wars and rumors of wars are the news of the day. For hearts of those in the world are filled with internal strife.
So, how do we pursue peace with all people? By being ministers of the “gospel of peace” (Eph.6:15). For God has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ and He has “given us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Cor.5:18).
Are you pursuing peace with all people today? Especially those who are enemies?
PRAYER: Dear Father, forgive us where we have been caught up in the warfare of the world. The media constantly reports on bad news and our ears are filled with it. Yet, we would have our hearts and our mouths filled with Your good news and peace. Fill us afresh with Your Spirit today that we might pursue peace with all people. In Jesus’ name, amen.