Called to Peace

There are some topics that many families choose not to discuss when they have family gatherings because the gathering can become as explosive as an erupting volcano. They did not wake up one day and decide to make a list, but past experiences made the creation of the list necessary.

How do we behave in  volatile situations? It is not easy. There are those who say it’s impossible to navigate and many times, that is the truth. But what can we do when we recognize that discord has become the way of life? The man on the street might say forget about them and move on. But how do you as a child of God move forward? In Colossians 3:15 AMP, the Apostle Paul says, “Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always].”

So, our relationship with God is the deciding factor because we have been called to peace. This is our struggle as people of faith; what does that mean? Does it mean that we allow others to walk all over us because we have been called to peace? The answer is in our personal walk with God; it is the deciding factor  because it determines the seat of control.  “For I do not understand my own actions [I am baffled and bewildered by them]. I do not practice what I want to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate [and yielding to my human nature, my worldliness—my sinful capacity].” Romans 7:15. 

Even when we find ourselves in that predicament, we are still called to peace. Sometimes we believe that we can do it on our own and we run into problems. When our interactions become difficult, we don’t have to run and hide. “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:17. If we strive to interact as God’s representatives, in the end, we will succeed. 

Thought for Today: Friend, your walk with God influences your walk with others.

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.