LIVE IN PEACE

Matthew 5:38-39a (CEB)

“You know that you have been taught, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to try to get even with a person who has done something to you.”

         The example Christ gives us when he was brought before Pilate may make you scratch your head. With all the powers of heaven at His disposal, Christ neither said nor did anything to defend himself. He remained silent for it was preordained that Christ would die on a criminal’s cross to complete God’s Salvation plan. When He uttered the words “It is finished” forgiveness became available to all men.      

            We are representatives of Christ, ambassadors for Him. When people know we are Christians they scrutinize us to find fault. Some may even attempt to goad us into a fight or disagreement. Notice that Paul says in Romans 12:18 “if possible, to the best of your ability … .” At times people leave us no alternative. We are, however, to strive to live at peace. God will exact retribution when He knows the time is right. Your enemies will bring it on themselves and God will then allow the consequences of their actions to declare their guilt. There is no escaping the judgment of God. Those who scoff at the Lord live for themselves. He knows all about them and will take care of them when the time is right. He will also offer them mercy, something we may find difficult to do.

            Not lashing out at those who harm us whether verbally or physically is extremely difficult. We must be strong in the grace and knowledge of the Lord to achieve such a reaction to wrongdoing. Remember, consequences apply to our reaction to any given situation as well, so think before you speak and/or act. It’s very appropriate to act in a way that Jesus would act or react in any given situation. Condition yourself to do just that and you may find it easier to live at peace with those around you. It comes from spending time with your Heavenly Father. Get to know His ways and you will begin to emulate them. That is what He wants for you. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Note: CEB is the Common English Bible.

Romans 12:18 (CEB) “If possible, to the best of your ability, live at peace with all people.”

Romans 14:19 (CEB) “So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.”