I had a discussion with someone who was sharing with me some painful situations that they are currently facing. Constant attacks, put downs and threats from those closest to them. Both my head and my heart were in such turmoil as I listened to all this person was facing on a daily basis. As the conversation went on, this friend shared with me their response to the ugliness they were receiving in hopes to bring peace to the situation, to no avail.
What they said is what has brought me to writing this blog. I hope it sheds some light and brings some freedom to many who are faced with these situations and who take the burden of being the peacemaker, fully, on themselves.
The Bible says in Romans 12:18 KJV: “if it be possible, as much as lieth (amplified says, as much as depends on you) in you, live peaceably (amplified, live at peace) with all men”
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Romans 12;18 KJV
I want to draw attention to the purposeful wording that Paul uses in this verse. “If possible” and “as much as lieth within you”. There are sometimes that, no matter what you do or say, because of the heart and spirit in another person, peace is not possible in a situation. However, this does not mean that peace is not possible within YOU! Our peace is not dependent on outward circumstances nor is it dependent another persons behavior.
Living peaceably and pursuing peace does not mean we accept or make excuse for someones behavior towards us. It does not mean we take on the blame or responsibility for their words or actions. That is being an enabler and is actually a co-dependant relationship which is not only unhealthy, but it is not Biblical either.
Jesus was both truth and grace and He is the Prince of Peace. By following His example, we can be truthful to those who are causing discord, doing so in grace and walking in peace. If you can only live in peace when others are “happy with you”, than my friend, you will NEVER be at peace as there will always be someone who doesn’t agree with you or like you. You must anchor your peace to the Prince of Peace and the truth of HIs word only.
If you can only live in peace if others are happy with you, you will never live in peace. Your peace must be anchored in the Prince of Peace and the truth of His Word only.
Peace may not always be possible, outwardly, when dealing with other people, but it can be possible INWARDLY based on the choices we make to live in truth which brings us peace.
If you are faced with situations right now, where you are caught in the trap of trying to make everyone happy in order to be “the peacemaker”, then let me shed some light. You can only do “as much as depends on you”. You are not responsible for the choices and behavior of others. Furthermore, living peaceably does not mean you are a doormat, punching bag, trash bin or dart board for someone else. Do not fall into those unhealthy patterns and relationships.
Speak truth, with grace, and then remember that He promises to fight for you, you need only to remain calm.
The Lord, Himself, will fight for you, Just say calm. Exodus 4:14
You have One who intercedes, fights and protects you. You are protected by the shadow of His Wing. Let the Holy Spirit guide your words and actions, which, at times, may be to do neither of the two, and then let your Father fight for you while you remain calm in the internal peace only He can bring.
Till next blog……….
