How Can Being a Peacemaker Help Me Gather Israel?

Nephi saw that people in the last days would contend with one another (see 2 Nephi 28:3–4, 20), but contention is not the Lord’s way. In fact, to gather Israel we need to have a “higher and holier”¹ way of interacting with others.

President Russell M. Nelson taught: “If you are serious about helping to gather Israel and about building relationships that will last throughout the eternities, now is the time to lay aside bitterness. Now is the time to cease insisting that it is your way or no way. Now is the time to stop doing things that make others walk on eggshells for fear of upsetting you. Now is the time to bury your weapons of war. If your verbal arsenal is filled with insults and accusations, now is the time to put them away. You will arise as a spiritually strong man or woman of Christ.”²

Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ love all of God’s children regardless of their differences. Satan tries to use our differences to divide us, but by choosing peace rather than contention, we create a welcoming environment that draws people to the Lord’s restored gospel.

Consider the following situations and ponder ways you can respond with love:

people holding up signs — If you feel passionately about a political view, how can you have greater understanding in your conversations with those who have an opposing view?

two people sitting with backs to each other — If your family isn’t getting along, how can you bring a peaceful environment of love and acceptance to them?

angry man looking at computer — If you feel upset by something you read on social media, what can you do to avoid getting into an argument?