In your experience, what are some of the biggest sources of conflict today, both in the world and in our personal lives?
Paul teaches us that peace is not passive; it’s something we must actively pursue. This passage in Romans 12 gives us a roadmap for doing just that. Here are some of the key actions we can take to pursue peace with one another: 

1. Be devoted to one another with a sincere love. The word devoted means we will be there through thick and thin, no matter what.
2. Give preference to others. Paul tells us to give preference to others without waiting for them to show it to us first. To give preference means to go before and show the way, to lead, to set an example. The command for us as Christians is not to seek the most honor, but to give the most honor to others. As Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
3. Pray for each other. Praying for others is the first step to having peace with them. Peace starts in the prayer closet. It begins by taking authority over the demonic powers that are trying to rob your relationships.
   
   

But pursuing peace with one another is also something we practice outwardly. Here are a few more ways we can do this: 

1. Practice generosity and hospitality. Romans 12:13 tells us, “When God’s children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night.”
2. Bless and don’t curse. We are commanded to speak well of others, especially in their presence. Romans 12:14 says, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” The word bless is the same from which we get the word eulogize. At a funeral, when we give a eulogy, we speak well of the person. We should be in the habit of speaking well of others.
3. Share the joy and pain of others. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Sometimes it is easier to weep with others than to rejoice with them, because their joy can make us aware of what we lack. I am sure you probably have struggled with that just like I have.
4. Don’t be stuck up. Paul also says in Romans 12:16, “Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody.” Instead of being a bunch of clones, Paul’s saying we should be on the same team. It’s not about everyone being exactly the same; it’s about all of us having the same DNA and working toward the same goals. He also gives us a kind reminder: “Don’t be a know-it-all.” That phrase pops up a lot in the Bible, so you know it’s a major point.
   
   

Now let’s take the rest of our time to dive a little deeper. Take a moment to reflect on a few verses together by having someone in the group read the verse and share what the verse means to them. 

1. Romans 12:10
2. Romans 12:15
3. Romans 12:18 
4. Philippians 2:3-4