How to Thrive in TeenagehoodSample

Pursuing Peace in Relationships

Think about the last person to annoy you. Just think about them. What did they do that pushed your buttons- and more importantly what was your response to that feeling of irritation?

Mine is definitely my sister! We’re super close in age, (15 months) and whilst that can be great, it also means we’ve constantly been in similar stages at similar times. When I liked barbies and lego, so did she. When I decided wearing cat ears was cool, she did too. And as we got older it only seemed to get worse. With every aspect of our lives, from friendship groups, to fashion, to music taste, we were constantly being compared. As I fought to be 'unique', I began to build resentment against my sister and the individuality I felt she had taken from me, causing conflict between us.

Hebrews 12:14 tells us to ‘pursue peace with all people’. What a statement. ‘Pursue peace’!

You see, biblical peace is so much more than just the absence of conflict; it is taking action to restore a broken situation. It requires humility and forgiveness. It's not something we can create ourselves, it’s a fruit of the spirit! (Galatians 5:22) The verse goes on, however, to let us know that as well as pursuing peace, we need to also make an effort to be holy. Holiness can be defined as living lives dedicated and devoted to God. When we actively begin pursuing the Lord, we begin to find that although it is still work, it becomes easier for us to pursue peace with others! All of a sudden we’re committed to allowing others to shine, apologising first and finding common ground with our adversaries.

As I started to truly pursue peace, how I approached situations with those around me (and particularly my sister!) began to change. Maybe you’re in a similar situation to where I was, feeling like you’re literally in battle with those around you. Maybe you've been hurt by friends you thought cared about you. Pettiness is easy, and the pursuit of peace is a difficult calling, but with every day you follow Jesus and allow him to lead your life, may you experience the peace of God that allows you to see others through his eyes…how he sees you. Forgive, and surrender!