The Word of God informs us of three different types of peace. The most obvious is the inner tranquility of mind and heart that gives us confidence and assurance in God. The second is having “peace with Godâ€. The peace offerings of the Old Testament allowed for temporary restoration in the relationship between God and man. The work of Calvary provided for a permanent reconciliation and peace with God for those who obey the gospel.
But there is another type of peace that is often overlooked. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus proclaimed the famous words: “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God†(Matthew 5:9). This refers to a situational or relational peace between individuals. It deals with making peace where there is none or bringing peace to a troubled person or situation.
The book of Hebrews tells us: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord†(12:14). Many times we extol the virtues of holiness (and rightfully so), but neglect to give proper attention to the necessity of living a life of peace with others. Similarly, Paul told the Romans: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men†(12:8). In these verses, and many others, we discover that it is our duty and expectation to be peacemakers. The text makes it abundantly clear that at this task we must do our very best and try our very hardest.
Is there someone in your life with whom you have failed to make peace?
