When one of my children was in elementary school he seemed to keep getting crossways with another child in his class. After a few unpleasant encounters between the boys my wife and I decided to get with the other boys parents and look for a resolution that would benefit both the boys. Most of us have been in conflict situations. Hopefully some form of mediation took place that was not vindictive or violent. Solomon tells us that the success of these encounters can even have positive or at least peaceful outcomes if we go into them filled with His presence and the power of His Holy Spirit. When our “ways are pleasing to Him” means we are living a just, kind, Christ-like life. In that condition no matter who or what we encounter they find that they are face to face with the kind, gentle yet truthful presence of our Savior. How can you lose. How can either of you lose. Solomon also recognizes in this counsel that when people of the world encounter someone who is living well and has a solid reputation for integrity and love it is better to ease away from a battle with them. The Talmud puts it this way, “He who is agreeable to God is equally agreeable to men.” Scripture is full of stories of God’s people who find favor and live at peace with non believers because of how they walk in their midst. Today if conflict occurs meet it with the depth of God’s presence in your story. #BeThe Edge
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all people.” Romans 12:18 NASB
