Pursue Peace

 

By Andrea Merrell

Let us pursue the things which make for peace

and the things by which one may edify another.

Romans 14:19 NKJV

Can you believe it’s already 2025? As we enter into this new year, what are your goals? Maybe you’re busy making a list of resolutions because you know that’s what we’re supposed to do.

Many dream of a new car, bigger house, better job, or more money, while others are determined to go to the gym, lose weight, spend more time with family, or clean out those long-forgotten boxes in the basement.

Whatever you’re seeking after, The Word for You Today says:

No position or possession is worthwhile if you don’t have peace. Money, status, popularity—it’s all meaningless if you lack peace. Many of us spend our lives trying to climb the ladder of success, but every time we go up one more rung, we lose more of our peace and joy, not to mention time spent with family.

In reality, true success only comes when we have peace—the peace that passes understanding and only comes from God Himself. His kingdom does not consist of things money can buy or anything a certain status can secure. Rather, it is “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17 NKJV).

The Bible tells us to pursue peace. To let it govern our thoughts and direct our lives. Colossians 3:15 in the Amplified Bible puts it like this:

And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. 

Whatever your plans and desires for this year, make it a priority to pursue peace.

 

Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net and arcadante.