If you hear the phrase “peacemaker,” I bet positive thoughts come to mind. You might hope you are a peacemaker, hope to be more of one, or think of others you know who hold this role in your life. Scripture says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:19), and “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” Both of these verses sound promising and might make you ask the question- what does a peacemaker look like in day-to-day life?
I often talk with clients about how there’s a nice way to say everything. Even if you need to tell someone hard information, like a truth that needs to be spoken or a boundary that desperately needs to be set, I’m a firm believer that these words can always be spoken peacefully. Words that are well-received, are typically spoken in a positive tone of voice, with neutral volume and careful word choice. So before you deliver that difficult information with someone in your life, think of the three principles of tone, volume, and word choice before you take the plunge.
As well, timing is important for the delivery of tough information. You might want to think of the concept of receptivity. Receptivity is highest when a person is not rushed, overtired, overstressed, or actively engaging in conflict. If it seems receptivity is high, then it might be the time to deliver well-prepared words and possibly be a “peacemaker who sows a harvest of righteousness” in your own corner of the world.
