You sow and reap your way into happiness
“God does not want something from us, he simply wants us.” C.S. Lewis
“He who does not long to know more of Christ, knows nothing of him yet.” Spurgeon
Peacemakers
Matt. 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Peacemaking… But to whom and to what degree? (not as simple as it seems)
Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone
1 John 2:19 They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us
1 Peter 4:15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler
Proverbs 26:17 Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.
Not peace at any price (internally)
Not peace at any price (relationally)
Not peace at any price (between others – meddling)
Not peace at any price (nations)
Pacifism: War and violence are unjustifiable in any circumstance
There are three reasons to fight
1) In order to preserve freedom (1 Sam. 16 David Goliath)
2) Defend innocent people Prov. 21:15 (justice brings terror to evil doers)
3) To stop the spread of evil Romans 13:4 (if you do wrong be afraid Sword)
What is a peace maker?
Peacemakers witness (peace with God)
Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
Eph. 2:17-18 He came and preached peace to you who were far away (Gentiles) and peace to those who were near (Jews). For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
Peacemakers attempt restoration in their relationships
Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone
Ephesians 4:2-4 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called
Listen intently to understand what/why is being said/ feelings
Tell them what you heard
Search your heart to see if you need to apologize
Come together with common bonds
Bring peace with God and peace with you
And you will be like your Father in Heaven