"If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."
This week has been a bit tough here. Keira has been sick, not sleeping well and very demanding when she is awake which can cause me to be impatient and frustrated. God has brought this verse to the front of my mind at various times and as I meditated on it there were several thoughts I had. It was encouraging to me so I thought I would share.
I'll go thru each phrase in this verse but I want to start at the end and work backwards.
"with all men" - this doesn't just mean our neighbors, friends or strangers. It means our children and spouses also; often times there are days when it is hardest to follow God's commands concerning those closest to us. Our children get angry, are demanding, clingy, they can be irritable but they are part of the "all men".
"live peaceably" - one definition I saw of the word "peaceably" is "promoting calm" we are to create a peaceful atmosphere with all those around us thru our attitudes and responses. In relation to my children; my attitudes and whether or not I follow God's commands should not be decided by how my children act. In fact, later in the New Testament we are told to not provoke our children (Ephesians 6:4, Colossians 3:21) I am responsible to promote calm in my relationships with my children, my husband and everyone else I encounter.
"As much as lieth in you" - I've also seen this translated "as much as it depends on you" I like both renderings because to me it brings two different thoughts to mind. In 1 John 4:4 we are told "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." We have the Holy Spirit in us! When I am weak he has promised to strengthen (Phil. 4:13, 2 Corin. 12:9). I am only responsible for my attitudes, reactions and emotions. Which brings the next phrase.
"If it be possible" - Peace may not be possible all the time (and probably won't be) or with every person you meet or have dealings with but we are to make sure we are doing our part to make it as likely as possible.
I know this is rambling a bit and not an exhaustive study of this command but as I said at the beginning it has been a great reminder and encouragement to me so I thought I'd share.
