Peacemaker

In Higher Rock yesterday, Dr. Jim Newheiser, co-writer of the book When Good Kids Make Bad Choices, spoke on "The Peacemaker: How To Pursue Peace." After lunch, he talked on the insights he learned when he surveyed the book of Proverbs. He compiled these into a book that's going to be released in the country soon.

The outline given is too long for a blog entry, so let me write the main points:

God tells you how to make peace.

You cannot completely avoid conflict (Romans 12:48). All conflict is the result of sin. Peace is sometimes out of your reach. Conflict is very dangerous. Conflict brings opportunity to glorify God, to be more like Christ, to serve others, and to bear witness to a watching world.

Do all that's in your power to pursue peace (Matthew 5:9; Hebrews 12:14).

Be ready to forgive others as God has forgiven you (Psalm 86:5).

Use the PAUSE principle in negotiating/peacemaking:

Prepare for peacemaking (1 Corinthians 4:13)
Affirm relationships (1 Corinthians 13:7)
Understand the interests of others: listen! (Philippians 2:3-4)
Search for creative solutions (Daniel 1)
Evaluate options objectively and reasonably.

We're also called to promote peace by confronting sin biblically.

Pastor Jim gave true-to-live illustrations in his talk. He's been to Baguio, Cebu, and Davao CCM (Communion of Christian Ministries) churches for the past few days. His schedule has been pretty tight. But praise be to God for sustaining him throughout his ministry here. He's speaking to Higher Rock's anniversary today, and he's flying back to America on Tuesday.

As for all of us, it was a feast for the soul; God's Word always is.