Peace with One Another
As children of God we are the salt and light of the world (Matt. 5:13-16). We have no light in and of ourselves, but we have the life of Christ within us and John said of Jesus, “In him was life, and that life was the light of men” (Jn. 1:4). Notice that light does not produce life. The eternal life of God produces light. Our purpose is to glorify God in our bodies. The glory of God is a manifestation of His presence. Therefore, we glorify God when we manifest (make known to others) the life of Christ within us. Bringing light into a dark world is what makes life meaningful and it doesn’t matter what size your light is, because there is not enough darkness in the world to put out the light of one small candle. The truth spoken in love always shines through the darkness.
It has been said that you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. That may be true, but you can create a powerful thirst by putting salt in their oats. Salt enhances the flavor of life. When unbelievers see the children of God living a liberated life in Christ, they can’t help but want what they have. Salt also acts as a preservative against the evil forces that would seek to corrupt us. Therefore, “Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other” (MK. 9:50). Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9). Any mortal can divide a fellowship, but it takes the grace of God to bring reconciliation to Himself and to establish unity among His people.
Paul says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Rom. 12:18). However, it may not always be possible. If another person refuses to be reconciled, there is little that we can humanly do other than to petition God. Regardless of how others respond, we must assume our responsibility to be peacemakers and continue carrying on the ministry of reconciliation. Our responsibility is to be a witness. It is God’s responsibility to save them. We cannot assume responsibility for another person’s life, but we must assume responsibility for our own attitudes and actions. We cannot make others what we want them to be, and they cannot keep us from being the person God created us to be. What we have freely received from God, we freely extend to others.
Neil T. Anderson is the founder of Freedom in Christ Ministries. He began the ministry in 1989 and continues to spread the message of freedom to this day.