Blessed Are The Peacemakers

When I first read this verse I thought being a peacemaker meant to be kind, avoid conflicts, overlook the faults of others, not to get upset etc. I thought it meant that I was to bring peace to all situations, you know the ”Christian” kind of thing to do. I’m a definite introvert so this works well for me. I just stay away from conflict and bring a peaceful attitude to my situations.

After studying this verse I realized I was not being a peacemaker but a peacekeeper. There is a difference!!

According to Kate Motaung, a peacekeeper is “often afraid of conflict.

Their fear of conflict can lead to many ongoing problems, including

people pleasing tendencies, lack of self confidence, self worth among

other characteristics.” Peacekeeping is a very passive position. We are

called to be PEACEMAKERS instead.

Kate explains a peacemaker “is not afraid of conflict, though he or she

does not seek it out, either. Peacemaking people stay calm and self-

controlled during conflicts, and they help others arrive at an agreeable

solution.”

Sometimes to bring peace to a situation we need to bring conflict in

first. We need to address the issue even though it may be

uncomfortable. Peacemakers promote unity, listen well and show grace

to others in the process.

Peacekeeping is passive, peacemaking is active. Pray with me to have

boldness and wisdom to be a peacemaker!

Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

James 3:18