Christians are to live in peace with everyone. Peace isn’t easy, but as a Christian, we can live in peace even if the person we are at odds with doesn’t see eye to eye with us. Peace comes from our maker. He fills us with peace as we pursue him and model the behavior of his son Jesus Christ.
Rom 12:16-18
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Harmony and Humility
Harmony and humility walk hand in hand. For peace to be possible in our lives, we need to walk in humility. Humility understands that we are sinful humans beings in need of a savior. It is also taking our focus off of ourselves and placing it on others. When are able to walk in humility harmony often follows close behind. The enemy to humility is pride. The NIV uses the word haughty, which means to think highly of oneself and less of others.
Be Content
Paul also tells us to associate with the lowly. This in itself is a humbling experience, but it reminds us of our need to be content with what we have. Contentment is a big part of being able to live in peace. If we are constantly striving to climb the ladder, we will never be content. Being around those who are lowly not only gives us an appreciation for what we have but it shows us what we are supposed to be about. Jesus came and served those who were needy, not those who had it all together.
Do the Honorable Thing
Finally, we need to do the honorable thing. What is the honorable thing? Paul tells us what it is not. Being wise in our own eyes and wanting revenge on those who have hurt us is the opposite of it. The honorable thing is letting go of our need for justice, it is resisting the urge to tell everyone how smart you are. Even when you do the right thing, and walk humbly there will be people you can’t live in peace with. Never stop striving but understand that we are responsible for our end.