Blessed Are the Peacemakers: Living as God’s Children

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Matthew 5:9 (ESV)
Blessed Are the Peacemakers: Living as God’s Children

1. Read

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9 (ESV):

The book of Matthew is the first Gospel in the New Testament, written by the apostle Matthew—a former tax collector and one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. In chapter 5, Jesus launches His public ministry with the Sermon on the Mount, a powerful teaching that outlines the core values and attitudes of God’s Kingdom. The Beatitudes, where today’s verse appears, announce unexpected blessings for those living according to God’s ways, not the world’s. Jesus speaks to crowds longing for hope and purpose, pointing them toward true happiness that flows from a godly heart. This passage is a call to let God’s peace reign in and through you, even in challenging relationships or circumstances.

2. Examine

Matthew 5:9 teaches that peacemakers—those who actively pursue reconciliation, harmony, and wholeness—are deeply blessed. Their peacemaking reflects the very heart of God, who desires to mend what is broken and restore unity. Jesus tells us that pursuing peace isn’t passive; it is often courageous and counter-cultural, involving humility, forgiveness, and a willingness to bridge divides.

Connection to Jesus: Jesus is the ultimate Peacemaker. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He made peace between humanity and God, breaking down walls of hostility and welcoming us into God’s family. Christ modeled peacemaking, not just by soothing conflict but by laying down His life for reconciliation. As His followers, we’re called to walk in His steps, bringing peace wherever we go.

Main Themes:
- Peacemaking: Actively working for reconciliation and harmony, not just avoiding conflict.
- Identity as God’s Children: Peacemakers reflect their Father’s character and receive the honor of being called His sons and daughters.
- Restoration: God’s blessing is tied to our willingness to restore relationships and cultivate unity in our communities.

Key Word Study:
- Peacemakers (Greek: eirēnopoioi): Not simply “peace-lovers,” but “peace-doers”—those who work to reconcile, resolve, and heal. This word implies active engagement, not passive avoidance.
- Sons of God (Greek: huioi Theou): A term signifying both privilege and likeness. To be called a son (or daughter) of God is to be recognized as a true child, bearing God’s image and embodying His qualities, especially His heart for reconciliation.

3. Apply

Reflective Questions:
- Where in my life is there a relationship, situation, or conflict that needs God’s peace?
- What steps can I take to bring healing or understanding where there is division?
- How can I model the heart of God today in the way I listen, forgive, or initiate reconciliation?

Christ-Centered Practical Steps:
- Initiate a Conversation: If there’s tension or distance between you and someone else, reach out first. Offer a kind word, a listening ear, or an apology if needed. Even a gentle message can open the door to reconciliation.
- Be a Bridge-Builder: At work, in your family, or among friends, look for opportunities to bring people together, clarify misunderstandings, or soothe tensions. Let your presence be a reminder of God’s peace.
- Forgive and Release: If you’re holding onto resentment or past hurts, ask God for strength to forgive. Imagine someone who, after much prayer, chose to forgive a coworker who betrayed their trust. Not only did it restore their peace, but it also softened the coworker’s heart toward faith and reconciliation.

4. Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for calling me to the blessed work of peacemaking. I praise You for being the God who reconciles and restores. Forgive me for the times I have avoided or even contributed to conflict—help me surrender my pride and fear. Give me wisdom and courage to bring Your peace into every situation and relationship. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can be a true reflection of Your love, compassion, and unity. Empower me to act as Your child, spreading peace and hope everywhere I go. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

5. Closing Reflection: Imagine yourself as a gentle river, bringing refreshment and calm wherever you flow. God’s peace flows through you, softening hardened hearts and nurturing new life wherever it goes. As you walk through today, remember that you carry the DNA of your Heavenly Father, the great Peacemaker. When you pursue peace, you shine with His likeness for the world to see.

Call to Action: Take one step today—no matter how small—to sow peace where you see tension or discord. Trust that God’s presence goes with you, guiding your words and actions. You are blessed as a peacemaker and honored as a child of God—go and let His peace shine through you!