Romans 12:18 (NKJV)

“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

There are times when peace is simply not achievable and we need to be realistic when we get to that relationship junction. However, we should have the default attitude that peace is possible, and we need to work hard to achieve this objective, by every righteous means possible. Peaceful relationships are the aroma of God in our midst. Acrimony, quarreling and fighting does not glorify God in any way, and unfortunately, too many of our relationships are marked by these negativities. There’s too much bitterness, rivalry and division amongst us and this is not God’s intention for His people. This is evil. This is wrong.

Therefore, as NKJV puts it, “as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” This verse did not say, “with good men,” but “with all men.” As much as it depends on you, make your relationship amicable even with the most difficult of people. As much as it depends on you, be the bridge in the relationship; be the healing balm, be the branch of peace, be the aroma of love. Be the one to stretch out the hand of forgiveness and friendship when things are going sour. NLT says, “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” Of course, there are times that even your best efforts may not be sufficient to salvage a relationship, but Scripture enjoins us to still “do all we can.” May we be known as people of peace, and even if we may look stupid at times, our stupidity would have been well worth it if we achieved peace at the end of the day.

“Let peace reign in me and around me Lord. Use me to be an instrument of Your peace O my God. May I never be the reason for divisions and disunity among the brethren. In Jesus name. Amen.”