- photo by Susan PageI recently heard the expression, “I am more of a peace faker than a peacemaker.” This saying intrigued me; I had never heard it before.
We are constantly bombarded with the world’s standards concerning “healthy relationships.” Secular psychology may promote living an emotionally healthy life including advice like getting things off your chest. Just tell the other person what you think … don’t hold back, let it all hang out. You may think that doing so will clear your head and end your stress. You’ve probably heard the expression, … “If it feels good, just do it!” Why keep the peace, or fake it? In other words, if someone has hurt you, then strike back, and don’t let it trip you emotionally. You only pass through this world once and might as well travel light.
God holds us to a much higher standard.
The word peace is mentioned 429 times in the King James Version of the bible. Keeping the peace and being filled with peace is particularly important to God.
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14).
“There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace” (Proverbs 12:20).
“The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever” (Isaiah 32:17).
“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other” (Mark 9:50).
Jesus said to His chosen followers; “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9).
Are we being hypocritical if we “fake” being a peacemaker? Have you ever heard the expression; do the right thing and the feelings will follow? I have thought about this a great deal. I concluded that pursuing peace is always what we want to aim for. At the same time, we need to remember to be true to the values we uphold.
The Lord Himself who gives us peace, left us these words, “Peace, I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
Practice makes perfect. Peace must be practiced. If we begin our day in peace (time with God), we can better claim His peace when discord comes knocking at our door.
As we approach each new day let us remember our Prince of Peace, who said these words … “Blessed are the Peacemakers.”
Susan Page is the daughter of the King, His beloved child, wonderfully forgiven and blessed! Susan longs to age gracefully, becoming more like Jesus as she seeks the hidden treasures revealed to her through Scripture, literature, the arts, humankind, and nature.