After I have had my complete say in a matter, it is then that I become a peacemaker. From that point on I can say that I am not going to argue with someone about a matter. I can pretend the other person is the one who is being argumentative. If they were really interested in being peacemakers, they would drop it, right? That is like being a hit-and-run peacemaker.

Peacemakers who have grown to mature levels aren’t people who start arguments. Mature peacemakers aren’t even people who finish arguments. They are people who end them.

When growing peacemakers like me start an argument or join someone in one, the Holy Spirit makes us feel miserable. Why? Conflicts with others hurt the reputation of God because we, His people, are not showing love. God doesn’t just have love. God is love. Others can’t see God through His people when they break peace with one another.

Peace is one of the channels through which God flows out of us into the lives of hurting people. Like mercy, peacemakers help others experience God. Mature peacemakers are really special. When they are in a situation where most people would lash out, they exhibit love and demonstrate peace even in a volatile situation.

Prov 15:1 (NIV) A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.