Are you a Stirrer?

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God"   Matthew 5:9   CSB 

What is the definition of a protester? According to many dictionaries, it is a person who participates in a public demonstration in opposition to something. It is expressing disapproval. There are many protests in the UK today and all over the world. A key one at this moment in the UK, is the withdrawal of the Winter Fuel Allowance. The over 60's, used to receive an allowance each year from the  government to help with heating costs. However, since a change of government, this has been stopped from October 2024 unless a person is on benefits. This has caused panic with older people because they feel that they won't be able to cope with the rising costs of fuel and electricity, especially since the major prices rises of late.

Now straightaway this could cause problems because it is a contentious area and an argument could arise because of this. Some feel that people on benefits are quite well off with the help they receive, whereas, people who are just over the threshold to qualify for financial help, are faced with the worry of how to meet the costs. Hence, we have a stigma developing and this is all causing unrest and bad feeling. Therefore, people are protesting about this area, But at the moment there seems no way it will change.

This brings us to how would Jesus handle this? Looking at this problem as a Christian who is not on benefits, will the loss of the Winter Fuel Allowance cause you a worry; will you struggle? If this affects you, do you feel bad about people on benefits receiving what you are no longer qualified to have? Is it worth protesting? Let's look at our text above. Jesus is talking about peacemakers. Is a protester a peacemaker? It all depends on how they go about it. There are peaceful protests and there are very many that turn into a riot with people damaging property and hurting each other. Protests are ok if, they are controlled and handled all the way through with a peaceful spirit. However, people who protest are seen by many as troublemakers; as stirrers of peace. And this is not the way a Christian should go.

Let us not forget (as we often do) that we can pray about anything and everything. Jesus understands what is happening in our world today. He doesn't pretend things aren't happening. Not at all; He is very concerned and is eager to see 'if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 15Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place.'  2 Chron 7:14-15. 

And also 'Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  13And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.  14I will be found by you, says the Lord', Jeremiah 29:12-14

This is the hallmark of a peacemaker. Prayer changes things and this type of prayer brings peace into a situation instead of stirring up a hornet's nest. We'll have a look at another contentious area tomorrow. Until then, keep the flag of peace flying high

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned   

I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.                                

dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com  

If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk

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