“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”  — Romans 12:18 NIV

It’s just a theory, I have no scientific research to back it up, but it seems people are more short tempered than ever. The store cashier is hearing more customer complaints, the restaurant server is enduring more mean guests, and homicide detectives are dealing with more senseless killings. On any given day we may deal with someone who is quietly holding onto a great deal of stress and our kind interaction may just be the thing to help them get through it.

Obviously we can’t be responsible for others’ bad behavior but we can be intentional about being kind, showing respect, and maintaining civility when conflicts arise. Living at peace with others is a worthy goal and a powerful way to impact them with a lasting witness of positive goodness. When your aim is living at peace, you won’t soon be forgotten, either.

This week, whatever circumstances you find yourself in, be determined to live at peace with others.