Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. PSALM 34: 14

Hebrews 12: 14 instructs, “Pursue peace with all men.” However, this does not signify compromising your beliefs or acting in a sinful manner that dishonors God. Rather, it means practicing loving, godly communication and an attitude of forgiveness.

How do you do so? You prayerfully seek to understand where others are coming from—especially when their words or actions confuse or upset you. Why? Because it’s far too easy to misread people’s intentions. This is why you should always give others the benefit of your doubt. You don’t know what’s motivating them to respond as they do.

Pursuing peace with all people isn’t easy, and the only way to succeed is to seek the Father’s understanding about who they are, what burdens they bear, and what they struggle with rather than relying on your own limited view (1 John 4: 20).

Therefore, as you go about your day, make sure that your heart is right with God and that you are not operating out of hurt or anger. Rather, treat others with love, because “love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8) and is the sure path to peace.

Lord, help me always be loving—a peacemaker who brings You honor and glory, amen.

In His presence . . . seek God’s view of others.

Stanley, Dr. Charles F. (2014-11-11). Every Day in His Presence (p. 269).