So I’m wondering why the author of the 31 Biblical Virtues to pray for your children, Bob Hostetler, chose to hyphenate these two words…
…why not just peace? OR why not just loving?
I don’t hear this phrase often, I just don’t. dictionary.com defines the paired words as inclined or disposed to peace; as, peace-loving citizens. Opposed to warlike or belligerent.
Ok, so — I get that.
friendly. serene. level. composed. untroubled. without hostility. nonviolent.
My interpretation of living “peace-loving” is making the effort to cultivate a peaceful, loving environment or culture or surroundings. It’s choosing to respond in love. It’s choosing to strive for peace and harmony. It’s choosing to look for solutions and not focus on the problems.
When we are peace-loving we are open to seeing different perspective than our own. We are open minded and willing to compromise looking for the common welfare of all.
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Romans 14:19
I had the opportunity to give specific examples of this to my boys this morning as they were arguing with each other on the way to school today. I’m embracing these teachable moments and am grateful for the awareness this journey is bringing into our lives. I see God working in all of us.
I pray, “Father, let my children make every effort to do what leads to peace; and me also. Amen.”
—————————————————-
For a FREE printable version of 31 Biblical Virtues graphic go here
On Pinterest? Follow the board created here — and “pin” this page! =)
If you are joining us on this journey and you haven’t already joined the Keeping it Personal Daily KIP e-mail list, go HERE and sign up — my daily virtue reflection will be emailed to you.
To start at the beginning and see the initial invitation/announcement about this, go HERE
About Teri