Follow peace with all men
Hebrews 12:14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
The word of the Lord today calls us to strive for peace with others, while also pursuing holiness in our personal lives. Our scripture text made us understand that without these things, we will not see the Lord. Let us consider some knowledge from the passage.
1. The Command to follow peace.
The word "follow" here means to pursue actively. It means that peace is something we must work toward diligently. Peace does not come naturally in a world engulfed by sin, conflict, and division. Yet, as believers, we are called to seek peace with all people, our families, neighbors, coworkers, fellow believers, and even those who oppose us.
In in an environment that often encourages hostility, competition, and selfishness, the command to pursue peace is generally given. Jesus Himself is called the "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6), and as His followers, we are called to reflect His nature. In the Sermon on the Mount, He blesses the peacemakers, saying, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God" (Matthew 5:9). If we are children of God, we should be known as people who bring peace into every situation.
2. What Does It Mean to Follow Peace?
Following peace doesn't mean avoiding conflict at all costs or being passive in the face of injustice. Rather, it means seeking resolution, reconciliation, and understanding wherever possible. To follow peace is to embody Christ's love and grace in our interactions, even when it is difficult.
Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 12:18, "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." This means that, to the extent it depends on us, we should do everything we can to live in harmony with others.
Sometimes this will mean humbling ourselves, forgiving offenses, and letting go of pride. Other times, it might mean speaking the truth in love, correcting wrongs, and standing for justice, but always with a heart that seeks reconciliation and peace, not division or strife.
3. The Call to Holiness
Hebrews 12:14 links the pursuit of peace with the pursuit of holiness. This reminds us that our external relationships with others are deeply connected to our internal walk with God. Holiness is about being set apart for God, living a life that reflects His purity, love, and righteousness.
Without holiness, we cannot see the Lord. This challenges us to examine our lives and our hearts. Are we living in such a way that others can see Christ in us? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us daily into the image of Christ? Holiness is not about perfection but about a heart that is continually seeking to please God and grow in His likeness.
How then can we practically follow peace with all men?
1. Pray for a heart of peace: Peace begins in our own hearts. We need the Holy Spirit to fill us with His peace, especially when faced with difficult people or situations. Let us ask God to give us a heart that loves peace and seeks reconciliation.
2. Forgive quickly: Unforgiveness is a barrier to peace. Jesus taught us to forgive, even as He has forgiven us. Holding onto grudges only breeds bitterness and strife.
3. Be slow to anger: Proverbs 15:1 says, "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger." In moments of conflict, we are called to respond with gentleness and patience.
4. Pursue understanding: Instead of jumping to conclusions or defending our own viewpoints, let us seek to understand others. Listening with empathy and respect can open the door to peace, even in the midst of disagreement.
5. Speak truth in love: Peace does not mean silence on important issues. But when we speak, we must do so with love, aiming to build others up rather than tear them down.
In conclusion, the call to follow peace with all men is not an easy one, but it is essential. It is a reflection of our walk with Christ and our witness to the world. As we pursue peace and holiness, we are showing the world what it means to be followers of the Prince of Peace.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, fill my heart with Your love and grace in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, help me to forgive, to seek reconciliation, and to live in a way that honors you in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.