If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

There have only been a few people in my lifetime, I felt I could do without. I quoted Romans 12:18 as my justification to not deal with them. I told the Lord, “you said IF it be possible, and with this person it’s just not possible“.

It wasn’t until today that I realized I skipped over, whether intentionally or unintentionally, a critical piece of that scripture – as much as lieth in YOU!

Another translation reads, Do all that YOU can to live in peace with everyone. Another version reads, If it is possible, as much as depends on YOU, live peaceably with all men.

Those few words of the scripture I omitted, implies that I have a responsibility in the matter. As difficult as it was, I had to ask myself, had I done ALL I could to live peaceably with these particular people.

If yes, then praise God, I did my part and could move on. After all, I’m accountable to God for my actions, not theirs.

You don’t know how badly I wanted to say yes. But, NO, I hadn’t done ALL I could.

“People of character do the right thing even if no one else does.”    -Michael Josephson

I have to do what I know God is calling me to do, even if it makes no sense to me, or others.

So, one way to maintain your peace, joy, and character when dealing with difficult people – Do all YOU can to keep the peace.

What that looks like will be different from person to person. I plan to write several parts to give you some general things to do. BUT, whatever specific thing God is calling you to do, do it, and trust God with the consequences of your obedience.

If they don’t receive it, or choose to continue to act a fool, or hold bitterness and anger towards you, that’s on THEM, not YOU.

I pray God gives you an ear to hear what He is saying, and a heart to obey!

Have a blessed day!

‪~Keishawna
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