21 Day Prayer ChallengeSample

Day 21- Peace Instead of Strife 

• God’s Word

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 (NIV) 

• Today’s Thought

Are you a peacekeeper or a peacemaker? Peacekeepers often avoid conflict to keep the peace. Usually, peacekeepers would rather avoid dealing with the issues rather than work through the issues. They would rather not stir the pot or create more problems. Their goal is to avoid the elephant in the room. On the other hand, peacemakers are committed to working through the issues to keep peace in their homes and in their relationships. The only way we can successfully do this is to look to Jesus, the "Prince of Peace."  

One of the principles Jesus taught in his famous "Sermon on the Mount" was this truth, "blessed are the peacemakers." Notice he didn't say, "Blessed are the peacekeepers." As followers of Jesus, one of the greatest lessons we can learn from this "be attitude" is knowing how to apply the principle of being a peacemaker into every area of our lives. The word used for peace in the Jewish culture is the word "Shalom." It not only serves as a greeting and farewell, but it also means, "I wish you the highest good." 

This attitude was a contradiction to the audience Jesus was teaching because they believed when someone wronged you, your attitude and response should be to even the score like the Old Testament law required, "eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth." Imagine what our relationships would look like if we applied this truth and principle Jesus taught about being a peacemaker? Rather than avoiding issues that cause more problems, we would be able to work through issues by resolving conflict, restoring peace and unity, and growing in our understanding and maturity with each other. 

As we continue to pray this prayer of blessing over family, friends, and our future, let's pray that God will help us become peacemakers by praying to have eyes that see the best in people. A heart that forgives, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses faith in God.  

• My Prayer

May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace. Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT) 

Lord, I come to you asking for wisdom, patience, and understanding as I see the best in people. Would you please help me have the right attitude and words to connect with the right intentions to those around me? I pray the same for my family, friends, and co-workers so that your peace might be at the center of every conversation and relationship. I pray that you would help restore broken relationships and bring healing and reconciliation, especially to those I have wronged or offended. Replace all strife and conflict with your perfect love and peace. In Jesus' name, Amen!