What does it take to be a peacemaker in such a divisive time? The challenge grows daily, as even silence is seen as controversial. Families are torn apart over philosophical differences, friendships dissolve when disagreements are treated as “non-negotiable,” and lives are fractured by division.
I’ve had to disengage from certain relationships—not simply because we disagreed, but because there was no willingness to respect boundaries or to “agree to disagree.” Those choices were never made lightly. They came only after prayer and discernment, and only when peace was no longer possible.
Letting Go of Ego
Our fragile egos often keep us from being peacemakers. We cling to the need to be right, even on issues that have little bearing on our daily lives. But true peacemaking requires humility.
Through working a twelve-step study, I’ve learned how to receive differing viewpoints without treating them as threats. I’ve also learned when to simply walk away rather than argue endlessly. Sometimes the most Christlike response is to disengage respectfully, leaving the door open for peace later.
More often now, I can listen with appreciation when others share their perspectives. Sometimes, I even learn from them and adjust my own thinking. Being a peacemaker doesn’t mean being silent or weak—it means influencing with grace instead of demanding compliance.
God’s Way of Peace
I thank God for softening my heart, humbling my ego, and showing me the beauty of peacemaking. Even on my hardest days, this work makes life far richer than the life I lived before Christ.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Prayer:
Lord, make me a peacemaker in a world full of division. Teach me when to speak, when to listen, and when to walk away in peace. Remove my pride, and fill me with humility so I can reflect Your love to others. Amen. you here!