Laying on the beach, feet sinking in soft sand, eyes closed with the rhythmic sound of waves in my ears, and the warmth of the sun lulling me to unconsciousness is my ideal peaceful setting. Others might say snuggled up on a sofa in a cozy, fuzzy blanket next to a warm, crackling fire with soft music playing is their idea of peacefulness. Can you put yourself there? It’s so inviting, isn’t it?

And then a beach ball crashes on your head, or the fire goes out and grows cold. Goodbye peacefulness! We must work to regain our sense of peace…throw the beach ball back to the children or add more kindling to the fire. And that is okay. Peacefulness is worth the effort and energy it takes to regain and maintain it.

But do I feel the same way when I think of peace in my relationships? Do I strive for regaining and maintaining peace with others? My personal tendencies are to avoid conflict, sweep misunderstandings under the rug, excuse poor behavior, and sulk in my hurt feelings nursing bitterness and a critical spirit. That seems easier. And honestly it feels better because, after all, I come out looking “higher and mightier” than the person who offended me since it appears I’m overlooking the offense. 

Living in peace with everyone isn’t about avoiding conflict, but lovingly, truthfully, and sensitively engaging it. To overlook an offense as stated in Proverbs 19:11 is simply about tempering your initial anger not avoiding the offense altogether. By seeking wisdom from the Lord, counsel from a friend who knows us well, and time sifting through our emotions, we can work at regaining peace in our relationships. It is important and part of our pursuit of holiness.

Soft beach or cozy fire…none of us live in a perfectly peaceful setting all the time. Team conflict, cultural misunderstandings, jealousy-filled comparisons, and hurt feelings will inevitably crash into our lives. But it is our calling to strive for peace, and as we trust the Lord in the process, may we grow ever more to look like Him!