Day 31: Peacemaking Church

Daily Devotional

Ephesians 4:1-6

1 “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

We learned on Sunday that peacemaking is more than just clearing out conflicts but also seeking to build up Christ-honoring relationships. Apostle Paul reminds us in today’s passage that living in a manner worthy of our calling includes making peace. To be humble, gentle, patient, and to bear one another in love. First comes humility - to be willing to put aside our own desires for the sake of others and to seek their good. Humility then creates opportunities to practice gentleness, patience, and forgiveness. Furthermore, peacemaking is rooted in the unity that we have in Christ. It is because we are one body, with one Spirit and one Lord that we have reason to strengthen our relationships and serve one another in love. As you reflect on the passage today, ask yourself how you can better serve and love those around you. Pray that God will give you the strength and wisdom to be a peacemaker in this world; to build bridges where there is division and be the light in the darkness.

Weekly Application

Peacemaking is more than just clearing out conflicts in our relationships. It seeks to build up relationships and have them thrive. Think of the relationships that you want to see deepen and grow. Then, think of ways you can serve them. They can be as small as sending a kind text message, helping out with house chores, or buying a meal. Also, pray for them, lifting them up to God that he may bless them. Let’s build up our relationships and be a peacemaking church.