In the Army we talk much about the skills needed to wage war. War is what results when diplomacy fails. While we must be ready to go to war to defend our nation, the deterrence of war and the diplomacy to prevent war is always the preferred method of resolving conflict. Many times, however, the people do not count the cost of going to war with other countries.
At the same time, people do not count the cost of going to war with our neighbor. We live in a very volatile political environment in our country these days. It does not take much effort to find or start a war with the people around us. As Christians, however, the Bible says; “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14 ESV) All the more in a volatile political environment and all the more in a morally disagreeing culture are we to be at peace. This does not mean that we do not stand or express our beliefs, nor does this mean that we appease everyone to like us. What this does mean is that we conduct ourselves peacefully and patiently. We must feel free to disagree, but we must also truly listen to the opposing points of view to bring about peace.
Are you a person that brings peace to your world or are you a person who brings war? Pray today that you will bring peace, so that others can find the truth of your peace in Christ.
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