As we got talking that day, I could notice how hurt she was. As a matter of fact, she told me she was going back to the same place where she was offended to give them maximum trouble. According to her; “I would let them know I’m not stupid, I’d give them the way they want it.” My response to her is the basis of today’s writing; “Learn to maintain peace.”
Friend, learn to maintain peace. The Bible speaks of the peace of God that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7). I believe there is also the peace of God that passes all misunderstandings (Matthew 5:23-25). The truth is, you will always have misunderstandings with people. But the way you handle it is proof of your maturity. You can be highly spiritual and highly immature.
It is better to be a man of peace than a man of power (Matthew 5:9). The power of love is stronger than the love of power. People won’t know you are a child of God because of how powerful you are, but because of how peaceful and loving you are (Matthew 5:43-48). You need to follow peace with all men without compromise. You need to be a person of peace (Hebrews 12:14).
Don’t let the devil play on your emotions by instigating people and circumstances against you. You must know when people are demonically anointed to rob you of your joy and peace (1 Samuel 17:28-29). There are minor battles, and there are major battles. If you don’t discern battles, you would get swamped with every quarel and miss your destiny.
The atmosphere of peace is the atmosphere of the Holy Spirit, while the atmosphere of war is the atmosphere of the devil (Ephesians 4:3, James 3:16). Be conscious of the kind of atmosphere you create or permit around your life (Proverbs 22:10). Sometimes, you would need to let people have their way so that God can have His way in your life and destiny (Genesis 13:7-13).
Be a person of peace. Don’t be the reason there is chaos at your place of work, family, church, etc. (Proverbs 16:28, 17:9). Like Abraham, God will bless you for choosing the high road of peace. People might think you are slow or weak. But the God of peace whom you honour would soon make a statement with your life (Matthew 5:9). Be a person of peace.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria