What is the role of peace in the Christian life?

However, we must not stop pursuing peace with people or holiness before the Lord. (See Hebrews 12:14.) Part of that pursuit involves sharing our faith as ministers of reconciliation. Paul reminds us that we are to have our feet shod with the Gospel of peace. (See Ephesians 6:15.) Although Jesus gives us His peace (John 14:27), that doesn’t mean we will be free from conflict. Sometimes it is peace with God that causes conflict. (See Luke 12:51-53.) Jesus says in Luke’s passage that He did not come to give peace. Jesus gives peace to those who are already His, but to those who are not, He came to make peace. Yet, some will not want what He offers, and therefore, the unwillingness to accept His peace causes division. This is where we must cling to God and not become confused in our role as peacemakers. (See 1 Corinthians 14:33, Matthew 5:9.) We are not to get angry with those who choose the world over the Lord. Instead, we are to let His peace rule in our hearts, live righteously and lovingly, and leave the door open to make peace with others and encourage them to make peace with God. (See Colossians 3:15, James 3:18.) As we seek to mimic Christ Jesus, we must express the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, and peace. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 reminds us, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all.”