Happy are those who work for peace; God will call them his children! Matthew 5:9, GNT

 

We live in a world where conflict forms part of our daily existence. We experience it in families, among friends, and at work. People hold different opinions, and human nature makes us believe and insist that we are always right and the other person is completely wrong. There is no room for differences or compromise. It’s not round, it’s oval. The door isn’t blue, it’s a unique shade of light blue.

 

We see it every day in the media too – politicians slandering one another, household conflict escalating into violence, business deals collapsing because of disagreement.

 

The big question is: How do we respond when conflict comes our way?

 

Are you the one who initiates it? Do you always find a reason to disagree, even over trivial things? Or are you the person who stands outside the ring and fuels the fight, throwing proverbial fuel on the fire, and then stepping back to watch the flames rise?

 

The important question is: What does God expect of us, his children? Matthew 5:9 leaves no doubt: “Blessed are the peacemakers …”

 

How do we do that?

 

Is the answer to step into the fight and point out exactly who is right and who is wrong? Are we meant to act as referees?

 

Perhaps not. Perhaps we are meant to bring calmness and reason into a conflict situation. Perhaps by offering a new perspective or soothing tempers. Perhaps humour can defuse the moment. Or a cup of tea.

 

Whichever strategy you choose, choose to be a peacemaker.

 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me through your Spirit to be a peacemaker. Lead me to be an instrument in your hand, bringing calm and peace wherever I move in this imperfect world. Amen