Why are Peacemakers called Children of God?

Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Peacemakers are called children of God because we serve a God of peace: "Romans 16:20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen".

Children of God are undoubtedly blessed with wisdom, discernment, inner-peace and an abundant life because they serve a tough purpose in life which is to make peace in a violent, strife filled world.

Here are some of the reasons why peacemakers are called sons of God:

Peacemakers are not Peacekeepers:

In Matthew 10:34 Jesus said: “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword". Peacemakers never run away from conflict because they are not peace-keepers, instead they do what it takes to Make Peace rather than keeping the peace.

Peacemakers strategically resolve conflict:

Peacemakers are open to reason and are eager to resolve conflict using strategic methods instead of dictating, fighting, arguing, hitting, or insulting. In 1 Kings 3:16-28, Solomon uses a wise strategy: two mothers who shared a home, each with a newborn son, came to Solomon. One of the newborn children was smothered and passed away; consequently, each of the women claimed ownership of the surviving child. Solomon summoned a sword and declared his verdict: the baby would be cut up and divided in half, with each woman receiving half. By using this strategic approach, Solomon was able to identify the illegitimate mother.

Peacemakers are humble and they know that they cannot do it on their own:

We are all familiar with the biblical story of David and Goliath. David is well known for being the man who brought peace to the nation. Resolving conflict brings many great opportunities, just as David became king when he slayed Goliath to bring peace to the nation (1 Samuel 17:45). It was a tough decision that David made to face a giant, but he knew that God was with him and justice would bring peace. Peacemakers stand brave and fearlessly before giants, but humble before God and the Church.

Peacemakers create psychological safety to give peace of mind:

Peacemakers speak life into others because it ignites inner peace in the hearts of people. Peacemakers plant seeds of peace in whatever they do and say, “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Seek for peace and work to maintain  it." 1 Peter 3:10–11 Peacemakers are confident in Christ; hence, they hold no selfish- ambitions. Peacemakers don't live in fear; they do not have any insecurities, nor do they envy others; instead, they have their full trust in God, knowing where they stand with God. Peacemakers never cause strife among people or themselves; they speak words of wisdom, faith, hope, and love due to being committed to honesty and truth. Peacemakers are inspiring people who make people feel secure and loved.

Peacemakers are transparent servant-leaders

Peacemakers are transparent leaders who take everyone's opinions, ideas, and feelings into consideration. There is no such thing as "hierarchy" nor secret alliances such as "brotherhood" with peacemakers. Galatians 3:28 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

Peacemakers are not "controlling"

Peacemakers lead, guide and inspire, instead of controlling and dictating which causes strife. Peacemakers show equal respect for everyone, and in turn, peace, honor and respect becomes part of the entire environment.

Peacemakers set healthy boundaries

Peacemakers set boundaries in a wise manner; setting boundaries is a very kind deed. By setting boundaries, you're allowing others to prepare for the future as much as the present. Setting boundaries empowers others. When the chains of bondage break, good boundaries will make way for people to become reliant on God. The beginning stages of setting boundaries will have birth pains, but the end result is peace for everyone involved. "Boundaries" brings to mind the golden rule; Matthew 7:12 “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”

Peacemakers carry their crosses and follow Christ

It's easy for us to love our fathers, sisters, friends, and close relatives, and it's easy to make peace with close relatives, but it's very difficult for us to love our neighbors who we don't have a special bond with. In "Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me". Part of taking up your cross to follow Christ means to not conform to this violent, "strife-bearing" world and to live as Christ did, that is, to not "keep" the peace but rather to make peace. Just as David did when he killed Goliath, so did many modern-day leaders such as South Africa's Nelson Mandela, who brought peace when he strived to end racial oppression. Peacemakers love their neighbours, because when you love your neighbours, or those you don't have a special bond with, you are creating peace.

“Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone”Romans 12:18

We live in a violent world, therefore "peace" is something people long for. If you choose to be a peacemaker, then you are choosing to be part of God's great purpose for this world, because our God is a God of peace. Therefore,  peacemakers are called Sons of the God of Peace.

Christ is the prince of peace

Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace

God Bless you - and may you choose peace daily.

From Natlie Loots