Romans 12:18
Scripture: Romans 12:18 (ESV) “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
Devotion:
If you have been a human being on this earth for some time you will recognise the main problem Paul is addressing in this verse. It is hard to live peaceably with all. All of us, at some time, will meet someone who we just cannot stand. The reason is all of us are broken in some way. We have this inherent struggle to maintain peace in our interactions, because influenced by pride, selfishness, or misunderstanding. This issue is deeply rooted in the human condition—our sinful nature often leads us to conflict rather than peace.
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all”. I find this verse both comforting and disturbing. It is comforting because Scripture here recognises that sometimes it is actually not possible to live peaceably with everyone. Conflict will happen. We cannot avoid it. Sometimes we can work through conflict with the other person, other times we can’t. Sometimes the conflict is so severe that the best thing is for a relationship to end. The most loving thing we can sometimes do is to break off a relationship that is irreparable. There is comfort in that.
On the other hand this command is disturbing because once again as Christians we are called to a much greater dedication to the other person’s well being than is considered normal. Notice that this isn’t a suggestion. Paul doesn’t say “As long as it is convenient, live at peace”, or “As long as you are feeling fulfilled in the relationship, live at peace”, or “As long as the friendship gives you something, live at peace”.
No, it is “As far as it depends on you”. That places the onus on us to do everything within our power to seek peace. When the conflict with a brother or sister in Christ is strong, this road will be hard, it will almost certainly be a long term time investment. But just because it will take time, and just because it will be difficult, doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be done.
When we seek peace, as far as it depends on us, we are following in Jesus’ footsteps. We are being like our Lord who, so far as it depended on him, did everything to bring peace between us and God the Father.
When you think it’s just too hard to keep going, look to the cross and be reminded how far Jesus had to go for you.
Prayer:
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Lord, guide me to be a peacemaker in my daily life. Help me to recognize the aspects of conflicts that are within my control and to respond to them with the grace and love you show us. Teach me to maintain peace, not through passivity but through active love and understanding. When situations arise that challenge my peace, grant me the wisdom to know when to speak, when to remain silent, and the strength to act in love. Amen.
Spiritual Challenge:
Today, identify a relationship in your life that has been strained or challenging. Take a proactive step towards mending fences. This might mean initiating a conversation, offering an apology, or simply extending a kind gesture. Remember, peace starts with you, and one small step can make a big difference.