THURSDAY May 14, 2026

Pursuing Peace and Holiness

Pursue peace with all people....
Hebrews 12:14

Did you know that when you became a Christian, your citizenship changed? You have a new citizenship. You are a citizen of your country, and also a heavenly citizen. You are just here for a little while, like a pilgrim on a journey, just passing through. Your citizenship is in heaven. When your journey on earth is completed, you will inherit an eternal home. As citizens of the Kingdom of God, we are to be peacemakers. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9).

Take into consideration that Paul the Apostle was speaking with Hebrew Christians who had different factions within the church. Some believers were being persuaded to return to Judaism. As much as possible, they were to pursue peace with all people. In other words, they were to be peacemakers, not troublemakers. They should not be warring among themselves. In fact, the Apostle James also warned against pride and strife that can cause wars among believers:

Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war (James 4:1-2).

I like what Paul and James had to say. I also think it is relatable to the Christian home. Be a peacemaker, not a troublemaker in your home. A husband and wife should not be fighting and warring against each other. Listen, as the husband and the spiritual leader in your home, do not look for a reason to pick a fight. Do not start a war!

A husband is called to love his wife and to be peaceable toward her and your children. Set the tone for your home. Let your family see that the peace of God rules in your home. It is really important, because your family needs to relax in a home that has become a haven of peace. Families need a peaceful place where they feel safe.

The peace of God needs to rule over our hearts, lives and homes.

Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
~Psalm 34:14~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!