As Far As it Depends on You

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18

Simple enough, right?

Notice that this command has nothing to do with anyone else but you. It doesn’t say if the the other side is working toward peace, then live at peace also. It doesn”t say if the other side responds kindly, then pursue peace. The assumption is to not rely on the other person to bring peace, but for you as a redeemed child of God to bring His peace into the relationship.

How are you doing with this? Are there any of your relationships that don’t have peace right now? Focus on your side of things for a minute. Have you been doing all you can to bring peace to this relationship? Are you praying for that person? Are you praying God’s peace that surpasses either of your understandings in the relationship?

This verse also assumes there are times when the other side will just not allow peace, but the charge here is as far as your side of things, do everything you can to bring peace to every relationship. Sometimes it may mean not having to be right, even if you are, to bring peace.

Spend some time with the Lord and ask Him where you my be getting in the way of His peace in your relationships. If there is one person in particular that is on your mind, take a minute to pray for them. Pray God’s peace over them. Ask the Lord to give you the strength to bring peace even if that person resists it.