Be a Peacemaker

Be a Peacemaker

What would it take to be a real peacemaker this year? A peacemaker is a person who “brings the peace by reconciling adversaries.” I am inspired to make peacemaking my primary goal for 2026. I made my resolve after experiencing a few unpleasant altercations this past year, and I would prefer to avoid another in the year ahead. I chose to be intentional and took responsibility for my part by asking for forgiveness. Rather than distancing myself from the other party, I chose, instead, to move toward the other person for reconciliation. Had I been a true peacemaker, there would not have been anything to resolve. I would not have become so easily offended by “taking the bait” and entering the fray.

Even we who walk with the Lord still have the capacity, if left unchecked, to sow to the flesh rather than to the Spirit. So how can we make peace instead of strife in tricky situations? The Apostle James lists characteristics of peacemakers in his epistle. He states that peacemakers are “first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” He continues with the promise that “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness” (James 3:17-18). So, there’s even a harvest for being a peacemaker, rather than embracing discord.

In the year ahead, may we all endeavor to follow James’s guidelines to create a more peaceful home, neighborhood, workplace, and house of worship.

Let us Walk in His Way.

Dear Lord Jesus, because You are the “Prince of Peace,” we desire to become more like You. Please help us be peacemakers in situations that could otherwise escalate into ugly disagreements. Help us bring peace where we see turmoil and help us seek Your heavenly wisdom in our daily lives. Be glorified. Amen.

by Corinne “Kinney” deHamel

author of “Walk in His Way” for

Carry the Light Ministries