# 44 2016 Dev. Mt. 5:9 The purpose of these devotionals is to draw closer to God by memorizing selected passages of Scripture. Further, to view the passage in context and grow spiritually by applying His Word to our daily living with family, friends and others. All passages are taken from the NIV.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the sons of God.”
The following intro. is the context for verses 3-12. Verse 9 is part of “The Beatitudes”. The meaning of this word is: “a state of absolute bliss” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). On this earth that state is the result of God’s grace and human kindness. Therefore, Jesus begins his sermon with the attitudes and the ethics of the Kingdom of Heaven.
What are we thinking about when we talk about making peace? It seems to me that making peace is a lifestyle. The practice of peace is part of following Jesus and begins at home, living in peace is a personal choice. “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Ro.12:12). However, peace is rooted in reconciliation and begins with God reconciling us back to Him in Christ Jesus. That makes peach making more complicated, it involves love, forgiveness and acceptance of those with whom we have differences of opinions and beliefs. But it does not mean compromise, we continue to believe and practice biblical precepts but we do not force that on those who do not. We must have the freedom to practice our beliefs but we must extend that freedom to others as well.
The reality of our present situation does not promote peace. Our religious freedom is now at risk by the pressure of government and other organizations to accept as normal, life styles and attitudes that are in conflict with the Word of God. Further, if we speak out of our belief it is considered as hate language and may be subject to prosecution. So much for freedom.
That is the negative but let’s move to our verse and the positive. Peacemakers are blessed, God’s blessing flow throughout our lives. But this is so much bigger because peacemakers “will be called the sons of God.” Those who follow Jesus are the children of God. The bottom line: v.31. “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Ro.8:31-32). Amen!
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