Making every effort…

We’re called as Christians to “make every effort to live in peace with everyone” wherever possible (Hebrews 12:14-15). This applies to the racial divide existing in the Church as well. Other passages share similar messages, like Romans 12:18 encouraging us live at peace with others “if possible, so far as it depends on you.” Likewise, Isaiah 26:2 reminds that we will be in perfect peace if our minds stay and rely on God. But how are we supposed to make every effort when it feels like we’re incapable, or it seems as though it’s outside of our scope?

Well our initial passage alludes to it. In its entirety, it reads “make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” This passage urges us to seek peace while also admonishing us to cultivate holiness in our lives. We need the Holy Spirit to do this.

When the Holy Spirit is at work in us, He causes holiness to occur in us. He sanctifies (1 Corinthians 6:11), assists in prayer (Romans 8:26-27), and He teaches and comforts us (John 14:26). When the Holy Spirit is at work in us, peace can exist in the midst of racial turmoil and chaos of the world. It’s because He gives power (Acts 1:8). May we tap into His power as we pursue peace and holiness together.