Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called sons of God.
—Matthew 5:9
It is appropriate that “Blessed are the peacemakers” follows “Blessed are the pure in heart,” for “the wisdom that comes from God is first of all pure; then peaceful” (Jas 3:17 NCV).
In country, community, family, and church there are those of contentious temperament and quarrelsome spirit who are quick to strap on the gloves and step into the ring. Among the seven things that God detests are those who sow discord (Prv 6:19).
But there are also those of gentle disposition who “seek peace and pursue it” (1 Pt 3:11); who “make every effort to live in peace with everyone” (Heb 12:14).
Peacemakers will be called children of God because God is “the God of peace” (1 Thes 5:23). Peacemakers look like God; the child resembles the parent.
War has no winners;
peace no losers.