November 4

The Peacemaker’s Peace

This is the account of the family line of Abraham’s son Isaac (Genesis 25:19).

Scripture: Genesis 25:19-34

Song: “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind”

Years ago a minister compiled a list of the descendants of Jonathan Edwards to show an extensive progeny of hundreds of people who held impressive titles and important positions. But, the list has one flaw: it focuses on careers, not character. For example, the Vice President was Edwards’ headstrong grandson, Aaron Burr.

By way of contrast, Isaac, a peacemaker who could wait for God to provide a well, led a household which could wait for nothing. His wife conspired to advance one son over the other; and one brother took advantage of the other in a moment of desperation, to persuade him to trade his future for a bowl of soup. And yet, from among a generation of grandchildren hard-wired for anger, there emerged a peacemaker who saved his whole family.

From Isaac and his family we learn that being a peacemaker is not the natural bent of the human heart. Troubled man is always ready for war with troubled men. That means being a person of authentic peace is a gift from God. Our advantage over Isaac is that we know that a peacemaker’s peace comes through faith in Jesus who said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives” (John 14:27). The heart at peace in Christ has the tools for being at peace with others.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your plan to display peace through me. In Jesus’ name I ask You to help me to represent You well. Amen.