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

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It wasn’t easy, but I had to do it. “Come to the front if you’d like prayer,” the pastor said. I stood still after the service ended. My heart urged me to step into the aisle, but my pride hedged me in. “What’s done is done,” I told myself, “So why go forward?” Then I thought, “Why am I glad when others go forward for prayer and too embarrassed to walk up myself?” With so much weighing on me, I needed to get over my ego and go down front. And I’m grateful I did.

As I opened myself up to a leader from the church, I could feel my burden lighten. My sadness, anger, and discouragement began to dissipate. He looked kindly into my eyes and wisely quoted Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This was good for my soul to hear, even though it was hard to believe and do in the moment.

The hard truth is that I had inadvertently hurt someone, and the friendship was over. I apologized, adjusted my future actions, and attempted to repair the relationship. Unfortunately, reconciliation was not welcomed. I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve experienced this. It never sits well with me, even though I realize it happens from time to time. I’m sure you can relate.

After what’s done is done, you and I have a choice to fuel or extinguish a conflict. We can dig in our heels or promote peace. Romans 12 extends multiple ways for Christians to stop giving the world reasons to pick fights, question our character and motives, or discredit our faith. And verse 18 reminds us that living peacefully is in our hands, regardless of how others receive us.

There’s a 100-percent chance we’ll contribute to conflict in the future. But it’s what we do after what’s done is done that makes the difference. We can live at peace when we own our part, repent, and take appropriate steps to mend the relationship as best we’re able.

Next Steps

How have you fueled a conflict recently? What steps have you taken to live at peace since? Consider going forward for prayer or visiting the prayer room at the next worship service you attend. Or reach out to pastoral support at Willow today.