No More Barriers

By: Lola Oni

Friday, February 13, 2026

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9

When God reconciled us to Himself, we became His children. It's an encompassing reconciliation, and when it happened, Jesus Christ became our peace! He is the Prince of peace, so the peace that He gives us surpasses all human understanding (Philippians 4:7).

If anyone has prolonged conflict in their lives, it will become a barrier between them and God. Unresolved conflict takes our attention off Jesus and refocuses it on the drama at hand. Christ followers are called to live peacefully in the workplace, our communities, and our homes. Really, we should be peacemakers everywhere we go.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3

Most of our world doesn't follow Jesus, so some types of conflict are almost inevitable. Satan knows this, so he loves to use conflict as a tool to cause division. He especially loves to do this within the church! It's sad, but the results of unresolved conflict are seen throughout our society. Entire families are affected by harsh words, old hurts, and unforgiveness. Even churchgoing families can be affected by Satan's discord. As Christ followers, we can't be ignorant of the devil's schemes to divide us. (2 Corinthians 2:11). Satan's schemes are ongoing, but thanks to Jesus, we are able to overcome his tricks!

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:17-18

Living at peace with everyone does not mean the total absence of conflict and disagreements. But it does mean we must settle them biblically, without letting them fester. It can be hard, and it may not come naturally, but reconciliation must be done. Christ followers are united in Christ, so in our conflicts, we can be united by Christ!

Following Jesus means we are keeping Jesus at the center of it all, and this includes our disagreements... When we resolve our conflicts peacefully, it brings God glory. Conflict resolution includes breaking down any communication barriers and building bridges of restoration. If we claim to be walking in obedience, we must be peacemakers. How? By putting Romans 12 into action: as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:17-18).

If past hurts and unforgiveness are the roots of our conflict, we must let them go without delay. We have been called to a higher standard; we are God's peacemakers!