“When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Proverbs 16:7

This passage is one that often provokes “But what about….” This passage is a maxim that is generally true. In the common course of life, this statement will be true. There are clearly exceptions. Christ’s life pleased God in every way, yet his enemies killed him. It would be a mistake, however, to assume that your life is an exception. This passage assumes that you will have enemies, those who would provoke conflict. Yet, conflict does not have to be inevitable. Matthew 5 contains a summary list of ways that please God. Notice how these ways lead away from conflict and towards peace.

• The humble person does not make his own desires the top priority.
• The mourner is more aware of his own sin than the sin of others.
• The meek focus on the needs of others.
• Holiness is the top desire of the hungry.
• The merciful demonstrate compassion instead of judgment.
• The pure in heart desire purity in word and response to the offenses of others.
• The peacemaker searches in every instance for the path to peace.
• The persecuted rejoice because their sufferings remind them that heaven is their ultimate home.