The Daily Devotional
Monday, August 5, 2024
Seeking Peace Amidst Discord
If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (Romans 12:18)
Introduction
In Romans 12:18, the apostle Paul exhorts us, "If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." This simple yet profound counsel offers a beacon of hope and a call to action in our often tumultuous interactions. As we reflect on this verse, we consider a scenario where emotions run high, and relationships are strained, urging us to find a path to peace.
Reflection
Imagine a dinner table, a setting meant for camaraderie and celebration, suddenly turned into a battleground. Two women, friends from long ago, find themselves at odds, not over a personal slight but over differing beliefs. One, enveloped in anger, lashes out, her words sharp as knives; the other, twisted in emotional pain, is left to absorb the blows of harsh criticism and public humiliation. This scenario painfully illustrates how quickly peace can be shattered by intolerance and misunderstanding.
In this vivid tableau, we see the destructive power of unchecked emotions and rigid stances. The woman driven by anger may feel justified in her response, believing her strong reaction is the only way to defend her beliefs. Conversely, the woman who is humiliated might question the very foundation of her friendships and her place within them. Both women are caught in a storm of discord, each responding in ways that only escalate the situation.
Application
This narrative challenges us as believers to assess our own responses to conflict. Romans 12:18 doesn't merely suggest peace as an ideal; it commands us to actively pursue it "so far as it depends on you." This implies a personal responsibility to foster peace, regardless of others' actions or the broader context. It invites us to consider:
How do we manage our own reactions when confronted with opposing views?
Are we contributing to peace, or are we escalating conflict through our words and actions?
Can we offer a calm and listening ear, even when we strongly disagree?
Conclusion
The disheartening scene at the restaurant serves as a stark reminder that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, understanding, and mutual respect. As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, actively sowing seeds of reconciliation in place of discord. This doesn't mean surrendering our beliefs but rather presenting them with grace and compassion.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, grant us the wisdom to navigate our interactions with others through Your lens of love and peace. Help us to embody the teachings of Romans 12:18, seeking to live peaceably with all. Give us the strength to hold our tongues when anger flares and the courage to speak truth with love. May we always remember that our call to peace transcends our human disagreements and reflects Your higher purpose. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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