Our verse for today refers to the fact that it is not always possible to live peaceably with everyone. There are some people, maybe some of your peers, who are and will be difficult to deal with. They are by nature cantankerous (bad-tempered, argumentative and uncooperative) and seem to thrive where this is discord. No matter what you do or do not do they find a way to be miserable.

First, we must understand something about what it means to live “peaceably.” Living peaceably means to make peace, and to be at or live in peace. You can desire peace but the other person may not. You cannot control what other people do or how they respond to situations, but you have complete control over how you choose to respond.

Misery, they say, loves company…but will never be comfortable in the company of those who choose peace. Matthew 5:9 says you are a blessed Child of God because you are a peacemaker.