“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” Romans12:18 AMPC
“ Your peace is more important than your point.”
With the holiday season upon us, there are ample opportunities for family and friend gatherings. I believe these times were intended by God for us to rest and enjoy the people He has brought into our lives and to further build those bonds of relationship. During these times, however, the enemy has another plan.
If we are not careful, we can trip over those bones of contention and trudge around the mountain of strife so much so that we’ve left furrows instead of footprints! When this happens, we not only upset the balance of peace in us, but we upset the peace of those around us as well. Though we cannot be responsible for the word and actions of others, we can be responsible for our own words and reactions to others, and I can clearly hear the voice of Jesus saying,” Your peace is more important than your point.” This is what He spoke to me. I’m not claiming to be a pro at this yet. Yes, there are times when I’ve wanted to make my point, to defend my case, and to validate my feelings. I am learning to stop and ask myself, “Is what I am about to say worth the cost? What am I losing if I bring this up, and what am I gaining if I don’t?
The Passion Translation’s version of Romans 12:18 says, ” If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody.” We all know this is much easier said than done, but God did not stop there. The scripture further says, ” Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. ‘I’ll do the judging,’ says God. ‘I’ll take care of it.’ So in other words, we must get along with everybody if we can and when we can’t- trust God to take care of the situation, by allowing Him to move and work for you.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, today I choose maintaining Your peace over trying feebly to defend my point. As far as it depends on me, I will try to live in peace with everyone, and when I can’t, I choose to trust You to move and work in and for me as My Righteous Judge.