Strive for Peace

Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. 
— Hebrews 12:14


Peace does not happen by accident—it requires pursuit. The writer of Hebrews places peace and holiness side by side, reminding us that our relationships with others and our relationship with God are deeply connected. To “pursue” peace means to go after it with intention and persistence, even when it is difficult, even when the other person does not respond in kind. This pursuit does not mean compromising truth or ignoring sin, but it does mean seeking restoration, reconciliation, and understanding wherever possible. Holiness is the companion of peace, for it keeps our motives pure and our actions aligned with God’s will.

To strive for peace is to walk the same path Christ walked—the way of patience, grace, and self-giving love. It requires courage to take the first step and humility to sustain it. Pursuing peace may not always result in agreement, but it always honors God, for it reflects His desire to reconcile all things to Himself. Every act of peacemaking becomes a small echo of the cross, where perfect love bridged the widest divide.

Who in your life might you need to take a step toward today—whether to reconcile, clarify, or simply affirm your care for them? How does the pursuit of peace reveal the character of Christ within you, even when peace feels difficult or one-sided? What connection do you see between holiness and peace in your daily walk with God and others?

Ask God for both courage and humility to begin that conversation. Pursuing peace is not weakness; it is the strength of love in action.


God of peace, 

Help me to pursue peace with everyone, even when it feels hard or costly. Keep my heart anchored in holiness so that my actions honor You. Use me as an instrument of reconciliation in my relationships, and let others see Your love through my pursuit of peace. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

-

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