The Bible is replete with lessons that teach us the proper way to treat others and conduct ourselves in personal relationships. Among the most important of these teachings is that our associations and dealings with others should exist within the boundaries and confines of peace. This biblical principle is general in nature and not specifically directed to the relationship between husbands and wives or immediate family members. However, it is certainly reasonable and appropriate to apply these admonitions to marriage and family, which are, after all, among the most important of all human relationships. Certainly it is God’s will for Apostolic homes to be a refuge and sanctuary of peace in a world that is filled with chaos and turmoil.
The Bible uses the term “peace†in a few different ways (e.g. inner peace, peace with God). However, often when Scripture mentions peace it is in the context of a relational peace between people. This describes an association or connection characterized by harmony, tranquility and calm. It reflects not only a relative absence of conflict or strife, but also an agreement of mutual concord between individuals.
God’s Word instructs, “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord†(Hebrews 12:14, ESV). We rightfully extol the virtues of living holy before God but often neglect to give proper attention to striving for peace in our relationships with others – which seems to be of equal importance, scripturally. The Bible also declares, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone†(Romans 12:8, NIV). Clearly living at peace with others is our duty and expectation. It is something we must continually strive for and do our best to obtain and sustain.
Jesus stated, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God†(Matthew 5:9, KJV). We can determine from these sacred words that peace is not something that simply happens naturally or instinctively. We must “make†peace. That is, we must will it into existence and commit to the actions that result in obtaining it. This beautiful verse also reveals to us that when we sincerely commit ourselves to this undertaking of being a peacemaker then we are become blessed! We can conclude, therefore, that when we make peace in family relationships then our homes will be blessed.
Here are a few points to consider regarding applying the biblical principle of making peace to our marriages, families, and homes…
- Living in a peaceful existence with your spouse is your duty and expectation as a Christian husband or wife. You cannot separate this pursuit from other Biblical responsibilities to your spouse including love, honor, respect, esteem, sacrifice, and so forth. Indeed, you cannot truly attain any of these if we you and your partner are not first at peace with one another.
- Achieving and maintaining peace in your home should be near the top of your list of Christian priorities. You should consider it a part of your daily endeavor to live righteously and holy before God. You should consider it a part of providing for your family – which is of great importance (1 Timothy 5:8).
- An environment of peace in your marriage and family will not come about by accident. It is something you must continually strive for, commit to, and work purposefully to uphold even in the midst of difficult circumstances. It takes effort not only to achieve peace in the home, but also to maintain it. Negligence to family relationships will ultimately result in the erosion of peace in the home.
- Enjoying peace in your marriage and home involves more than merely refraining from fighting and bickering with one another. It also includes a state of emotional stability, safety and security under which family members can grow and develop.
- Peace in your marriage and home is more than just a mental state. It must begin with having the proper attitude and mindset. But, it must necessarily come to fruition in your actions, behavior, and conduct
It is not possible to obtain a true lasting peace with others if you do not first have an inner peace that comes from the Spirit of God (John 14:26,27; Romans 14:7). Scripture says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on the: because he trusteth in thee†(Isaiah 26:3 KJV). When our relationships and homes seem to be suffering from a lack of peace it is often because we are not connected to the Lord like we should be. Dedicate yourself to reconnecting with God first and peace will follow in your life and home.
Courtesy of MarriageMoment.org – Used with permission.
