Thought for the day

As Christians, it is essential to make peace our plumbline because peace is foundational to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The Bible emphasizes peace both as a state of being and a practice that reflects God’s kingdom. Here are some reasons why peace is so important:
1. Reflects Christ’s Character:
Jesus is called the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), and He modeled peace throughout His life. As His followers, we are called to imitate Him, which means living lives that promote peace, reconciliation, and harmony (Ephesians 4:3).
2. Commanded by Scripture:
As Christians we are repeatedly instructed to live in peace with others. Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). Additionally, the apostle Paul encourages us as believers to pursue peace (Romans 14:19, Hebrews 12:14). Peace is an active pursuit, not merely the absence of conflict.
3. Peace as the Fruit of the Spirit:
Peace is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). When we align ourselves with the Holy Spirit, peace is naturally produced in our lives. This peace is not just internal tranquility but a state that affects how we interact with others and the world around us.
4. Peace as a Witness:
When we live out peace, we testify to the world about God’s love and the reconciling power of the gospel. As Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, God has given us the ministry of reconciliation, and part of this reconciliation involves making peace with others.
5. Guarding Our Hearts and Minds:
Peace serves as a protective mechanism. Philippians 4:7 teaches that God’s peace “which transcends all understanding” will guard our hearts and minds. When we cultivate peace as our plumbline, it helps us maintain emotional and spiritual stability in a chaotic world.

Peace as our plumbline helps us stay aligned with God’s will, reflects the heart of Christ, and creates a powerful witness to others. It serves as both a spiritual safeguard and a means of living out our calling as peacemakers in a broken world.

Erick Bouwmeester
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