If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. ~ Romans 12:18 KJV
With the way things are happening in todays world it may seem this scripture would be impossible to fulfill. Clearly the Lord does not want anyone arguing or fighting. Is it possible to live peaceably with all men? Apparently, it is. But how do we do this? We must always show love to others and not fight. There are times when we would need to distance ourselves from people whom you are constantly arguing and bickering. Marriages are in a different category and are worked out through a relationship with the Lord.
There was a time when the Apostle Paul and Peter had to part their separate ways because they could not find agreement. They had differences in their knowledge of the Gospel. Paul had a deep revelation of grace through his relationship with the Holy Spirit. Peter, on the other hand, was having some trouble accepting what he was teaching because he did not understand it all. So in order to bring peace between them they ministered in different areas.
There was an instance when Paul and Barnabas disagreed so it is noted they parted ways also.
Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also. (36) And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. (37) And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark. (38) But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. (39) And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; (40) And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God. (41) And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches. ~ Acts 15:35-41 KJV
When these men of God did not agree on some things it was best that they departed so there could be peace. The problem with people today is that they want to prove the other person is wrong. Sometimes we must accept the other person has another perspective or is not at the same level of revelation that you have. To live peaceably we must move on. Then there won’t be any bickering or moments where the enemy can come and work his destruction. Amen!
