SOAP Devotional 2015-02-05
Scripture – Observation – Application – Prayer
Scripture:
God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. (Matthew 5:9 NLT)
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9 NASB)
Observation:
Few things are worse than war. God is a God of peace and we do well when we work toward peace. It does not mean that we allow the ungodly to run over us or an unjust enemy to win. That would never bring true peace, but rather just delay conflict. This is true whether it is a real war or a hateful disagreement between two people. So what kind of peacemakers are called the sons of God? True peacemaking is not just resolving conflict with others, but rather peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Observe this passage in context and you see it fits right between those who are merciful and pure in heart and those who are persecuted for doing right. These peacemakers are those who help others be reconciled with Christ.
Application:
The best way to bring peace to others is to help them make peace with God. In fact, even when dealing with conflict between two people who are in conflict, it is godly principles that will bring peace between them. Those who do these things are even recognized by the world as the children of God.
Prayer:
Father, help me to be a restorer and not a destroyer. Let me be one that helps to bring others into a right relationship with you and with others.