INTRODUCTION

In a world filled with competition and pride, the peacemaker is often wrongly accused of being unable to handle the conflict or the fight. This is why many people consider backing down from strife a sign of weakness. Once again, God and man are at complete opposite ends of the spectrum. While many men consider it commendable to continue strife, God thinks it honourable to cease from strife. In other words, the greater man or woman brings conflict to a close rather than further instigating it. According to the Bible, it is a fool who continues to meddle in hopes of prolonging the conflict. It is up to each believer to determine whether to accept God’s way or man’s way of thinking.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

• (For children): Read 1 Peter 2:21-23 [21] For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: [22] Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: [23] Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
  See All.... People mistreated Jesus throughout His trial and crucifixion. He could have stopped it (Matthew 26:53Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
  See All...), yet He came to earth to be our Saviour. Stemming from His great love for us, He chose not to strive (Matthew 26:62-63 [62] And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? [63] But Jesus held his peace, And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
  See All...a; Matthew 27:12-14 [12] And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. [13] Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? [14] And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.
  See All..., 39-44; Luke 23:34Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
  See All...).
• (For everyone): How is it possible to be more honourable in ceasing from strife? What kind of strength does it take to swallow your pride and take the wrong even if you are not the only one at fault or completely at fault?
• Do you find joy in reconciling others or in stirring up their conflicts? How could this general attitude lead to problems in your desire to see others reconciled to God?

PRAYER NEEDS

• Ask God to give you a desire to cease from strife.
• Ask the Lord to help you adopt His way of thinking.

HYMN

TRUST AND OBEY

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