World peace.
A worthy goal. One that is whipped out every time something awful happens across the globe. Voices cry out for it in the streets, but really, no one seems to know how to achieve it.
Most people think of peacemakers as passive, meek, quiet; people who work in the background, behind the scenes. They think that if we can only manage to put an end to conflict, then surely we will have peace. The problem with seeking peace is that simply ending conflict isn’t the way to achieve peace. And being a peacemaker isn’t a passive role either.
To be an effective peacemaker, there are some things you should do…
ACTIVELY PURSUE PEACE
Don’t just sit on the sidelines, waiting and hoping peace will happen. Get involved. Ask God to direct you into avenues of action where you can help bring peace to a situation.
BUILD GOOD RELATIONSHIPS
Peace is a by-product of commitment. When you are in a relationship, there is a natural incentive to think of that person’s well-being first, and that, often, fosters peace.
ANTICIPATE PROBLEMS
Think ahead. Relationships can be rocky at times, so looking ahead at any possible issues or conflicts can help you deal with them before they become a problem.
DEAL WITH CONFLICT IMMEDIATELY
Conflict left to itself festers like a boil. It should be dealt with the moment it pops up because if it’s not it will eventually grow too large and will explode. It becomes unmanageable and often will hurt anyone in its path. It’s far better to get it out in the open right away rather than having to deal with the fallout at a later date.
INVITE GOD INTO THE MIX
This should be a no-brainer, but as Christians, we should ask God for His help in pursuing peace. Being a peacemaker can be hard work, but it does end with God’s blessings. You see, God loves peace and those who bring it.
1 Peter 3:11…”Stop doing what is wrong, and do good. Look for peace, and do all you can to help people live peacefully.”