Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Matthew 5:9
Peacemakers:
a person, group, or nation that tries to make peace, especially by reconciling parties who disagree, quarrel, or fight
Do you know a peacemaker? Are you a peacemaker? All of my life it seems I have been a peacemaker. I usually try to smooth ruffled egos, or try to sooth the person who feels that he/she is not respected enough. Sometimes this is a tiring task. It can take a toll on you and on how you help others if you are not careful. Paul tell us in Galatians 6:9-10 (ASV)
And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith.
Why do you suppose God wants to bless the peacemakers? I like to think it is because of them that treaties are made, pacts are adhered to, and wars are stopped. Some of these agreements may be for economic reasons but the peacemakers have a unique gift of diplomacy. These people have a way of studying the opponent by learning the culture and other customs. For instance…did you know that in Middle Eastern culture, when in negotiations, you are not to speak first? It is a sign of weakness. Silence is not the enemy and we should not be afraid to use it.
Today, look at your words and actions, do they glorify the Lord? Do your words honor God as well as lift up and exhort the person to whom you are speaking? Growing up, did you hear the words, “If it isn’t nice, don’t say it.” How many times have I spoken and then replayed the scene in my mind of how I have failed to build someone up. This is not meant to condemn but rather to reassure you that you, too, can become a peacemaker—a person who builds up. To do this we need only to be silent, when we want to speak words that are not kind. Especially when we use sarcasm to disguise words that would be intended to hurt and wound.
God wants to use us in all of our ways. We may not feel adequate but be assured that God will use you where you are and give you the tools you need to start fresh. Begin you day with “God, help me to learn something about the person who tests me every day. Show me his/her heart and give me the peace that You are in control. Let me look at him/her through Your eyes.”
About Tina Marin
This is a good reminder that a peacemaker builds up. Tina, as you said, to do that we need to be silent long enough to allow God to show us the person’s heart. Thank you, Tina, for this devotional and prayer. I too want to be “a person who builds up.”
a great reminder of a prayer of a peacemaker’s heart, tina! <3
Thank you, Tina, for the reminder of how our words can harm – especially with the technology available today. Love the “Beginning of the Day Thought!”