“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
—Hebrews 12:14 (NIV)
Peace is a gift that seems elusive in a world filled with conflict, misunderstandings, and division. Yet, in Hebrews 12:14, we are called to make every effort to live in peace with everyone. This command isn’t limited to those who are easy to get along with or who share our perspectives. It extends to everyone, even those who may challenge our patience or test our love. Pursuing peace is not just a suggestion; it’s an essential part of reflecting God’s love and holiness in our lives.
Living in peace with others requires humility and selflessness. It often means putting aside our pride, letting go of grudges, and seeking reconciliation instead of revenge. Have you ever had to apologize even when you felt you weren’t entirely at fault? That’s the kind of humility love compels us to embrace. Peace doesn’t always come naturally, but it’s a fruit of the Spirit that grows as we align our hearts with God’s will. Ask yourself: Are there relationships in my life that could use more peace? What steps can I take to bring healing and harmony?
Choosing peace doesn’t mean avoiding tough conversations or compromising truth; it means approaching conflicts with grace and a heart that seeks restoration. Love motivates us to listen more than we speak, to understand before being understood. It pushes us to be peacemakers, even when it feels inconvenient or undeserved. Sometimes, this involves extending forgiveness or offering a kind word to diffuse tension. Other times, it’s simply choosing to overlook an offense for the sake of unity.
When we pursue peace, we reflect God’s character and invite His presence into our relationships. The effort we make to live in harmony with others is not only a testimony of our faith but also a way to draw closer to Him. Let’s commit to being vessels of peace in our homes, workplaces, and communities. As we do, we fulfill Christ’s call to love others and shine His light in a world that desperately needs it.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to pursue peace with everyone I encounter. Teach me to approach conflicts with humility, grace, and a heart rooted in love. Strengthen me to choose peace even when it’s difficult, and let my life reflect your holiness and love to those around me. Amen.
