Live and Let Live
But, don’t mess with my world!
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9
This Gospel is called the Gospel of Peace because its intent is to reconcile men to God and to each other, and if we are to be peacemakers, we must seek God’s wisdom and heart. All these verses—often referred to as the beatitudes—seem to point us to this very thing; the wisdom that comes from knowing and loving God.
Many of us are contentious by nature, wanting things to be how we want them to be and having little understanding or compassion for those who want things to be any other way. The phrase “live and let live” may leave our lips, but it is often followed by the thought, “but don’t mess with my world.”
The answer: Love God. Focus, not on our desires or the desires of others, but on God and what he desires. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says, “But seek first his Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” I think the emphasis in those words should be on the word “all”. I think when we seek God, He will make us all He intends us to be. We will become peacemakers, not because we desire peace, but because He desires it.
Seek Him. Love Him. Become a peacemaker by being filled with His peace.
Buy "Be Still" from WestbowPress.com
Marbles In My Pocket ~ The Official Blog of Charles L. Mashburn ~ Poems, Short Stories, and random thoughts from the author of "Be Still... and know that I am God" 
joseph elon lillie said
I couldn’t’ t agree more. It is the seeking God part that so often alludes me. I rush through life forgetting my God and that is when my vision becomes entirely self-focused
charlesmashburn said
I definitely know what you mean, Joseph. We–me , for sure–are by nature self-centered, and I long to be the man God would have me be. One whose interest is focused on Him and His will, rather than on myself and my earthly desires.
joseph elon lillie said
Me too!
Verlyne Meck said
Good Morning Charles……from peaceful (today) Buckeye, Arizona.
Your marble was peaceful to my heart. It was a blessing and I pray that I share that peace with others……especially the senior adults that I see at FSBC/Buckeye this morning. Always for Him, Verlyne
charlesmashburn said
I pray that, too, Verlyne. The world is always trying to steal our peace, but all we have to do is keep turning to God. He will never leave us, nor forsake us!
Mom is living with us now, and she was blessed by your comment!