Peacemaking 101预览

AT PEACE WITH HUMAN CONDITIONS

Unfortunately, it is not only our enemies who are difficult to love. We often struggle most to live at peace with those closest to us. Why? Because we are human.

Before King David married Abigail, she had her work cut out for her as Nabal's wife. Nabal was not interested in peace with others. When he decided against looking out for his neighbor David's shepherds, David was ready for a fight (1 Samuel 25). But Abigail managed to make peace. How? By making peace with her husband's flaws. "When Abigail saw David, she quickly got off her donkey and bowed low before him. She fell at his feet and said, 'I accept all blame in this matter, my lord. Please listen to what I have to say. I know that Nabal is a wicked and ill-tempered man; please don't pay any attention to him. He is a fool, just as his name suggests" (1 Samuel 25:25, NLT).

Abigail had the power to either preserve peace or cause a war. Fortunately, she had enough insight into the flawed nature of humans. Her husband's weaknesses would not go away if she exploited or exposed them. But she could bring peace to her world.

Do you struggle to accept other people's flaws? Do you often find yourself attempting to change people you love? What is the result?

Bringing peace to the world starts with humility and unity. In the same way, as Paul urged the Ephesians, we should live in harmony by making peace with our human condition. 

"Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace" (Ephesians 4:2-3, NLT).