Back in the days of the Wild West many disputes were settled with guns. The Colt Model P was often the weapon of choice. It was one of the more accurate weapons and had a revolving chamber that held up to six bullets. This was a definite advantage against a weapon that was limited to one shot. The weapon became popularly known as the "Peacemaker." I am very confident that this was not what Jesus had in mind when He talked about peacemakers.
There has to be a better way to make peace with adversarial people than the threat of violence. The Bible suggests two tactics that solve about 90% of all disputes between people: "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." (Romans 12:18) If you apply this verse to your life, it will make it very unlikely that you will be the source that disrupts the peace. Since most disputes require two parties, if you remove yourself from the equation--or better yet--never become a part of the equation, you are acting as a peacemaker. But, what if there is an unavoidable conflict? That brings us to the second tactic.
When dealing with people and disputes we must learn to speak the truth in love. It starts by being truthful with ourselves--making sure that we have not taken liberty with the truth or twisted it to serve our purposes. Then we speak that truth in love. The Bible tells us that love has the ability to cover an abundance of sin. Which means that we do not hold people's sin and weaknesses against them. So, when you speak the truth in love, it means that you are giving an accurate, truthful testimony--and sharing it in a way that serves the best interests of the other party involved.
Prayer: "Dear Father in Heaven, You are great and greatly to be praised. I do pray that Your Kingdom would come and rule in my heart; and that my life would be a reflection of Your grace and mercy in everyday life. Please help me avoid being a source of offense with others, and make me bold enough to speak the truth in love." Amen
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