No right-minded soldier would drop their weapons in the middle of heated conflict. Neither should we in our pursuit of peace. It may sound strange to speak of weapons and peace together, but that is how it is described by Ken Sande, author of Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict.

Everyone encounters conflict in their life. Some of it is good to get differences of opinion and facts out in the open. However much of the time conflict becomes a destructive process because the wrong ‘weapons’ are used, like defensiveness, anger, self-justification, and gossip. Sande reminds us that scriptural ‘weapons’ are actually effective in real life. These include: scripture, prayer, truth, righteous (Ephesians 6:10-18), and the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control). (Galatians 5:22-23)

These are the tools that help us pursue peace and conflict resolution. They help us to seek first to understand and then to be understood. They elevate the other person’s interest while making your principles and interest clear. They help us approach others with respect. Held firmly, not meekly, scriptural weapons defuse anger, resentment, jealousy, disrespect, and other emotions that incite further conflict and derail the resolution process. They are the same weapons Jesus used to defeat satan. We are well counseled to use them also.

What conflict are you facing? Take time to reflect on Romans 12:14-21 and become skilled at using the ‘weapons’ of peace so you can stand your ground as a peacemaker.