Hebrews 12:14 NKJV
"Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the LORD."
It's not just about avoiding conflict, but actively pursuing reconciliation and building positive relationships, and also about aligning one's life with GOD’s standards of purity and righteousness. The pursuit of peace must first begin with the pursuit of GOD! This is foundational for any of us to succeed in every area of life. To follow peace is to follow the life and teachings of JESUS. This goes beyond simply avoiding arguments. It means actively seeking the LORD’s ways to resolve conflicts, mend broken relationships, and create an environment of understanding, love and unity. We must not be casual but intentional to achieve peace. it’s about allowing self to be controlled by the HOLY SPIRIT.
The same is true in our pursuit of holiness. To be holy is to be separate from all ungodliness.
The presence of the HOLY SPIRIT in our lives is utmost if we are to pursue holiness. Reflecting CHRIST JESUS’ character and living a life that’s sanctified honors and pleases the FATHER. His moral standards, as revealed in the Bible, rather than conforming to the ways of the world makes holiness possible. Peace and holiness are not separate pursuits but are deeply connected. No one cannot truly have one without the other. A life characterized by both is a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the gospel. We’re warned that neglecting either peace or holiness will hinder one's effectiveness and relationship with GOD. It also suggests that sin’s influence hinders our ability to truly know and experience the power of GOD.
Prayer:
Heavenly FATHER, thank You for the reminder that without holiness, no one will see You. I pray that You would help me to pursue peace with everyone I encounter. Please give me the strength and wisdom to resolve conflicts, forgive offenses, and extend grace to others. May my life be a reflection of Your love and a witness to Your holiness. I also ask for Your help in striving for holiness in my own life. I know that I cannot achieve this on my own. But with Your HOLY SPIRIT in me, I can enjoy Your grace, guidance, and trust, that enables me to grow closer to You and become more like Your Son, JESUS CHRIST. Please empower me to lay aside the sin that so easily entangles me and to walk in Your ways. In JESUS’ Holy Name, Amen.