I have been attending a peacemaking class at our church for several weeks now. What a great class it has been. We are using a book called The Peacemaker by Ken Sande.
From the beginning I have been learning techniques to help me keep peace with people in my life. But sometimes even when all the 'techniques' are put into practice, peace just doesn't happen. That is very frustrating.
This week we went to these verses: 2 Timothy 2:24-26
"And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.25 Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. "
Now I realize the context is for leaders in the church, BUT aren't we all "the Lord's servant"?
Anyway, this verse reminded me that it is only my job to OBEY what God has asked me to do. Follow His leading....the results are up to Him. "God will grant"!!! so even if I follow all that He has asked me to do, I have no control over the other person's response...that is between them and God.
For years I have told my children this: "Do what you know is right, it doesn't matter what others say or do. You only answer for YOU." But I know that sometimes it is very discouraging when you do what is right and the results expected don't come to pass. BUT remember, the results are not up to us! Our job is to do!
James 1:22
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
Thanks for the heads up on this book. Looks like something I could benefit from. A friend of mine is dealing with a very spiteful family member--I've never known anyone who could be so deliberately vicious in their words and actions. I'll pass this info along to her, too. Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteI think everyone should read this book and practice what is in it. the world would be a better place for sure
ReplyDeleteI love hearing good reviews on books. I sure want to get this one. I love the "our part is to do."
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Pamela
@Pamelaunfortunately the doing part is the hardest, at least for me it is ;0
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you discovered Peacemaker Ministries! What a powerful tool God is using all over the world. My husband and I are in training to be on a Peacemaker team in our church. The annual conferences for PM are amazing. One of my mottoes from this study is 'we the most forgiven ones should be the most forgiving!'
ReplyDeleteBlessings as you discover more treasures in your reading.
Ruth
This is so true. I have heard my husband say many times that if you do what is right it will be alright.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Charlotte