Untold millions are spent every year, especially in this country where we have so much, trying to find peace. Every year, thousands of people seeking personal or family peace, flock to professional counselors (I’m not saying that is bad…just stating a fact). Many will go see the drama lama, I mean Dalai Lama, while others will flock to the Yogi side of things. Diplomats will fly around the world pursuing peace between nations (ain’t going to happen). Our court systems are jammed with cases arising from a breakdown of peace between individuals or corporations. And you and I both know people who used to be friends but are no longer due to a rift which developed.
Peace is an oft missing commodity these days. There are actually three avenues of peace which we need. We need eternal peace. We need internal peace. And we need external peace.
All in all though, there are three essentials to pursuing peace with others:
1. Remember we are fellow members of the same body (the church). Cancer is a rogue cell rebelling against the rest. Many are fighting a cancer in their church body.
2. Realize the cause of discord often lies wholly or partly with us. Yeah, I’m guilty. So are you.
3. Take the initiative to pursue peace with another person. Wrong or Wronged. Lay aside the sword.
I hope to bring home those three thoughts this Sunday. Thanks for praying.
I am guessing this has to do with squabbles in a church type organization. where the dissenter is always wrong and the way we have always done it is always right. The cancer needs to be cut out before it can spread. Sometimes the cancer is the majority and the rogue element knows what needs to be done before the organization drifts off into irrelevance.
I’m not sure we are both guilty. Maybe it is just you and I am right.
I am always for trying communication. Usually a lack of it is what caused the problem to begin with. But if that doesn’t work then let the bombing begin and take no prisoners.
Actually I was referring to a church type organization but it also can hit all organizations. I’ve seen others blow up due to a rogue cell. And you are right in that the rogue cell might be the one to challenge the status quo.
I like the presentation of these ideas. I have learned quite a bit about making and fostering peace over the years. However, I still have a long way to go. I will be praying for you in my morning devotionals.
Thanks for your prayers Daniel. I’d like to think I presented them well, but I am a lousy judge.
As I read your post, ‘peace I leave you, my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid’ floated through my mind.
Preach it, brother.
I did use that phrase in the sermon Linda.
That last one…
“Wrong or Wronged. Lay aside the sword.”
Wow. It’s too tempting to get justice (and on one hand, it’s not even really wrong… but we often get carried away and that’s when the trouble starts…)
You’re right Zee. It is too tempting to get justice. Nothing good comes out of it though.
Yep. “Live by the sword die by the sword.” Thanks for the reminder that points to humility. Praying for you and yours.
Thanks for your prayer Floyd. Time to lay that sword down.
I try to remember that Jesus gave us His peace which passes all understanding. We should practice it!
Blessings and prayers for your sermon and for you, Bill!
Amen Martha. Practicing it can make such a difference.
Hi Bill! Peace always begins in our homes, our souls. I agree that I can make a big difference through love and service right in my own home and church. Guilty? Oh yes. But willing to keep trying that’s for sure.
Blessings!
Ceil
Hi Ceil! Hope your time away has been rewarding. Always good to hear from you. And never quit trying is a good motto.
I found peace the first time I heard the song “Flawless” for the first time a couple of weeks ago. I can not express how much that song moved me. I’ve been one who has always felt not good enough, not worthy. That song totally change my way of thinking…….the Cross IS enough! Is doesn’t matter about being worthy, the Cross IS enough. You call His name and the Cross makes you flawless.
you mean…all those sermons on grace didn’t reach you? LOL That is fantastic and proof that God can and will use all means to reach people.
The sermons did help, but that song just drove it home!!