Understanding and Applying the Call to Be Peacemakers
The phrase “Live peaceably with all men,” found in Romans 12:18, is a simple yet profound instruction that urges us to do our best to get along with everyone around us. But what does this really mean in our everyday lives, especially when the world can be anything but peaceful?
Taking Responsibility for Ourselves
One of the most important parts of this verse is the phrase “as much as it depends on you.” In other words, it’s not about forcing others to be peaceful or expecting everyone to treat us perfectly. Instead, we’re called to control our own attitudes and actions. In tense situations, we might not be able to change someone else’s behavior, but we can choose how we respond. This means we should avoid reacting out of anger or returning insult for insult. Our job is to make sure we’re not adding fuel to the fire, regardless of what others do.
Being Active Peacemakers
Some might think living in peace just means hoping everyone gets along, but Romans 12:18 is more active than that. It’s about actually stepping out to be a friend, showing warmth even when others are cold, and doing what’s right in all situations. When conflict arises, we’re invited to look for ways to heal rather than hurt, to offer kind words instead of harsh ones, and to help build bridges instead of walls.
Responding to Evil with Good
The verses around Romans 12:18 go even further. They say that if our enemy is hungry, we should feed them. If they’re thirsty, give them something to drink. Instead of seeking payback or revenge, we’re meant to overcome bad behavior with genuine goodness. This doesn’t come naturally—it’s much easier to get even or hold a grudge. But the Bible urges us to choose the higher road of kindness, even when it’s hard.
Relying on God’s Power
Let’s be honest: people can be difficult, and sometimes it feels impossible to live at peace with everyone. That’s why this way of life isn’t something we do on our own. Believers trust in the Holy Spirit—God’s presence within—to give them the strength, patience, and love they need to act differently. True peace isn’t just about keeping the peace on the outside; it’s about having an inner calm that comes from trusting God to handle what we can’t.
Staying True to Our Values
It’s worth noting that living peaceably doesn’t mean going along with everything or compromising our beliefs. The call is to pursue peace wherever possible, but not at the cost of what’s right or true. Sometimes standing up for what’s good will bring conflict, but even then, we’re encouraged to handle ourselves with respect and humility.
Putting It into Practice
· Control your own reactions during conflicts, choosing calm and kindness over anger and retaliation.
· Show kindness even to those who may not treat you well.
· Look for ways to do what is honorable and good, even when it’s difficult.
· Let go of the desire for revenge, trusting God to bring about justice in His own time.
This call to live peaceably is an invitation to humility and love. It’s about reflecting the way God treats humanity—offering forgiveness, patience, and kindness even when we don’t deserve it.
Final Thoughts
Throughout history, people have often been quick to make enemies of each other. For those who follow Christ, the world may not always be friendly. Still, the challenge remains: don’t pay back evil for evil. Instead, make it your aim to do what is good and honorable. Study the ways of peace and put them into practice, as long as it doesn’t compromise your conscience or offend God.
When anger swells—either in yourself or others—sometimes the wisest move is to step back and let it pass rather than escalate the situation. We are called to persevere in kindness, and even if our efforts don’t change our enemies, we leave vengeance in God’s hands. In the end, those who forgive are the real conquerors, overcoming evil with good and holding onto their own peace.
Isn’t it sweeter to know that, with God’s help, you can rise above the world’s strife, acting with a spirit that is gentle, honorable, and strong? That is the kind of peace that lasts.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
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