In what ways can we "seek peace and pursue it" in conflicts? The Call to Seek and Pursue Peace 1 Peter 3:10-11 reminds us: “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.” The command is active—peace isn’t accidental; it’s chased. Guarding Our Words • Speak truthfully and kindly. Proverbs 15:1: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” • Refuse gossip or half-truths. Ephesians 4:29: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths.” • Pause before you reply. James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Choosing Attitudes that Foster Peace • Humility over pride (Philippians 2:3-4). • Patience over irritation (Colossians 3:12-13). • Mercy over revenge (Romans 12:19-21). • Trust in God’s justice rather than demanding personal vindication (Psalm 37:7-9). Practical Steps in an Active Pursuit • Initiate reconciliation—don’t wait for the other person. Matthew 5:23-24 urges us to leave the altar and make things right first. • Own your part with honest confession (1 John 1:9). Even a small share of blame matters. • Offer forgiveness quickly. Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” • Seek wise mediation when needed (Matthew 18:15-16). • Replace hurtful actions with tangible good. Romans 12:20: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him.” • Pray for the other person (Matthew 5:44). God changes hearts—often starting with ours. Maintaining Peace Long-Term • Cultivate daily fellowship with the Lord; the “peace of God… will guard your hearts” (Philippians 4:7). • Stay connected to a local church family where mutual encouragement and accountability thrive (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Keep short accounts—settle matters quickly before resentment takes root (Ephesians 4:26-27). • Practice continual gratitude; thankful hearts struggle less with bitterness (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Relying on the Spirit’s Power True peace flows from Christ Himself. John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you.” By the Spirit, we bear “the fruit of peace” (Galatians 5:22). Pursuing peace, then, is not merely a strategy—it is living out the very life of Jesus within us. |
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