Being Peaceable

Matt. 5:9
In Matt. 5, Jesus starts his sermon on the mount with what we call the “beatitudes.” He lays out 9 ways that one can be blessed. Blessed are the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness sake, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake (Matt. 5:3-10). He closes verse 11 with “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.” To an average human, most of the previously stated would not be a blessing at all. That might be why Isaiah 55:8 says, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isa. 55:8-9). One of the beatitudes is “Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.” (Matt. 5:9). Christians are to be those who bring peace to those around them. One of the most confounding sections of scripture can be found in Rom. 12:14-21. In verse 11 of Romans 12, it says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” This is after verse 14 says, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” This is baffling to human nature, but that might also be why Rom. 12:2 says that we need not be conformed to this world we currently live in, but we need to be transformed and we do that by renewing our minds. Paul continues to say that in doing so we will prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2). This is not unique in the New Testament. Jesus said the same sentiment in Matt. 5:43-45. We might not understand why God wants us to do this, but at the end of the day, His will and knowledge is higher than ours. This week, and the following weeks, make a concerted effect to do good to everyone, and so far as it depends on you, be at peace with them. I love you all!
In His service,
Steven Hugley