2 Corinthians 5 King James Version
18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
In a world filled with division, misunderstanding, and conflict, the call to be a peacemaker is more relevant than ever. It’s not just a lofty ideal or an optional virtue for Christians—it’s a divine commission. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:18, “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” This verse reminds us that peacemaking is not merely about resolving disputes; it’s about reflecting the heart of God, who reconciled humanity to Himself through Jesus Christ.
But what does it truly mean to be a peacemaker in our daily lives? How can we live out this calling in a way that honours God and brings healing to our relationships and communities? Let’s explore the essence of peacemaking and how it can transform not only the world around us but also our own hearts.
The Heart of Peacemaking: Reconciliation with God
Peacemaking begins with God. Before we can extend peace to others, we must first experience peace with Him. Sin creates a barrier between humanity and God, but through Christ’s sacrifice, that barrier has been removed. Romans 5:1 declares, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This reconciliation is the foundation of all peacemaking.
When we embrace the peace of God in our own lives, it changes us. It softens our hearts, humbles our spirits, and fills us with His love. Only then can we extend that same grace to others. Without this divine peace, our efforts at peacemaking may lack depth and endurance. But when rooted in God’s love, peacemaking becomes an act of worship—a way to glorify Him by reflecting His character.
What It Means to Be a Peacemaker
Being a peacemaker goes beyond simply avoiding conflict or maintaining superficial harmony. It’s an active pursuit of reconciliation, justice, and restoration. Jesus Himself modelled this during His earthly ministry—healing the brokenhearted, forgiving sins, and bringing people together across cultural and social divides.
Here are some key aspects of what it means to be a peacemaker:
- Reflecting God’s Love
As ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), we are called to reflect His love in every interaction. This means showing compassion, humility, and kindness—even when it’s difficult. Peacemaking begins when we see others as God sees them: valuable, beloved, and worthy of grace. - Seeking Reconciliation
True peace requires addressing the root causes of conflict. This may involve initiating hard conversations, offering forgiveness, or admitting our own faults. As Matthew 5:24 teaches, “First be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” Reconciliation is not optional—it’s essential to living out our faith. - Promoting Justice
Peacemaking isn’t just about resolving personal disputes; it also involves standing up for what is right. Isaiah 1:17 urges us to “seek justice” and “defend the oppressed.” Being a peacemaker means working toward fairness and equity in our communities while advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. - Cultivating Inner Peace
Before we can bring peace to others, we must nurture it within ourselves. Philippians 4:7 promises that “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,” will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Through prayer, reflection on Scripture, and surrendering our anxieties to God, we can cultivate a spirit of calmness that radiates outward.
Practical Steps for Living as a Peacemaker
Peacemaking requires intentionality and courage—it’s not always easy or comfortable. But with God’s help, we can live out this calling in meaningful ways:
- Listen Actively
James 1:19 encourages us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak.” By truly hearing others’ perspectives without judgment or interruption, we create space for understanding and resolution. - Speak Truth in Love
Ephesians 4:15 reminds us to speak the truth in love. This means addressing conflicts honestly but with kindness and respect. - Forgive Freely
Forgiveness is at the heart of peacemaking. Colossians 3:13 urges us to “forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Let go of grudges and extend grace as you have received it. - Seek Common Ground
Focus on shared values rather than differences. Romans 12:18 advises us: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” - Pray for Wisdom
Ask God for guidance in navigating conflicts and for His Spirit to work through you as an instrument of peace.
The Blessings of Being a Peacemaker
Jesus declared in Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This beatitude highlights both the privilege and responsibility of being a peacemaker. When we pursue peace:
- We reflect God’s character as the ultimate Peacemaker.
- We strengthen relationships and build trust.
- We experience inner joy and fulfilment from living out our faith.
- We contribute to healing and unity in our communities.
Peacemaking is not just about resolving conflicts; it’s about creating environments where love can flourish and God’s kingdom can advance.
Read More About This Devotional
Words of Wisdom: Revived and Renewed: Living in the Fullness of God’s Restoration
Quote of the Day: “The purpose God has for you is stronger than any problem you are facing”
A Call to Action
As you reflect on today’s devotional thought—“Be a peacemaker”—consider these questions:
- Are there unresolved conflicts in your life where you need to seek reconciliation?
- How can you actively promote peace in your family, workplace, or community?
- In what ways can you rely on God’s strength to guide you in difficult conversations?
Remember that being a peacemaker is not about perfection; it’s about obedience. Trust that God will equip you with everything you need as you step into this calling.
Let today be an opportunity to embrace your role as an ambassador for Christ—a bearer of His peace in a world longing for hope and healing.
Scripture Reading for the Day
2 Corinthians 2 King James Version
1But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.
2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
3 And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.
4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.
5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all.
6 Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many.
7 So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.
9 For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.
10 To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;
11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.
12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,
13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.
14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.
15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:
16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.
