Pursuing Peace: The Way of the Believer

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." - Romans 12:18  
  
Today, I want to talk to you about something that is on everyone's minds: peace. We live in a world where conflict and chaos seem to be the norm, but as believers in Christ, we are called to pursue peace.  

In Romans 12:18, Paul encourages us to "live at peace with everyone." Notice that he says "everyone." This means that it doesn't matter who the person is or what they have done, we are called to seek peace with them.  

Now, I know that seeking peace can be difficult at times. There may be people in our lives who have hurt us or who we just don't get along with. But as followers of Jesus, we are called to put aside our differences and seek reconciliation with others.  

But why is peace so important? Well, for starters, it is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This means that when we are filled with the Spirit, we will naturally exhibit peace in our lives. When we pursue peace, we are reflecting the character of God to the world around us.  

Additionally, when we are at peace with others, we can focus on the things that really matter. We can devote our time and energy to building relationships and sharing the love of Christ with those around us.  

So, how can we pursue peace? Firstly, we must recognize that it is not always easy. We may have to swallow our pride and extend an olive branch to someone who has hurt us. We may need to forgive someone who has wronged us. But as Paul reminds us, if it is possible, we must do everything in our power to live at peace with everyone.  

Secondly, we must seek peace in our own lives. This means cultivating a heart that is at peace with God. When we are grounded in the peace of Christ, we can extend that peace to others.  

Friends, let us be a people who pursue peace. Let us be quick to forgive and slow to anger. Let us be willing to extend grace and seek reconciliation with others. As we do so, we will reflect the character of Christ to the world around us, and we will experience the peace that surpasses all understanding.