It Just Depends

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”  Romans 12: 18

Being a peacemaker, or peacekeeper, is a full-time job!  Life is full of difficult people and we often find opportunities throughout the day to put this verse into practice. This verse is a very practical, well-balanced piece of advice that will benefit any relationship.

The first thing to note is that it says “If it is possible…”  This indicates to me that the Lord, speaking through the Apostle Paul, acknowledged the fact that there would be times that it is simply not possible.  Of course, there are people who will argue, fuss and fight with you regardless of how conciliatory you try to be.  There are times that the situation requires us to confront issues that lead to upset.  If someone is abusing your child, obviously, that is not a time that you can afford to just hold your peace and let it go.  But for the day in/day out annoyances that come our way, we should endeavor to live in peace.

The second noteworthy part of this verse states “as far as it depends on you.”  Relationships take two people.  God rightly places the responsibility of our behavior squarely on us, while still acknowledging that it does not all depend on us.  A belligerent or unreasonable person can be unyielding and unreachable.  This is good news- that we are only responsible for our part.  Not the way others respond to us. This takes quite a bit of weight off of us.  Doing right is our part, the results belong to God. 

Finally it gives the imperative, “live at peace with everyone.”  This is where it gets sticky.  This means that we cannot goad people we do not like or who have idiosyncrasies that drive us crazy.  This means we do not get to decide to stay angry with someone, refuse to speak to someone or have prejudices.  “Everyone” is a pretty inclusive term.  Thank goodness, the other parts of this verse bring the balance and perspective.  When it is possible, when it is up to you, live at peace with everyone.  You be the pace car.  You be the change agent.  You be the one that can help people be reconciled.

Dear Lord, I ask you today to show me the balance to this verse and to put it to practice.  Show me when it is possible.  Show me the part that depends on me.  Help me to live at peace with everyone, recognizing that every person is created in your image and for your glory and is worthy of love and respect- regardless of the behaviors they present to the world.  Help me to show Jesus in all I do.  In Jesus’ Name.  Amen.

Sherri