Creator’s Promise of Peace with Our Enemies

"When the ways of human beings please Grandfather, he will even make their enemies to be at peace with them” (Proverbs 16:7, First Nations Version).

Our Yakama people have a virtue called itma’aaksha. This virtue describes being restrained, peaceful, and responsible in order to be in harmony with all people.

In the ways of our people, harmony has always been a sacred teaching. The beat of our drums and the footsteps of our dancers remind us that all life moves together in a sacred circle—like the heartbeat of one family. When we walk in balance with Creator and creation, peace naturally follows.

This proverb tells us that when we walk in a good way, it pleases Creator, and even those who are our enemies will move toward peace with us. This is not something we can make happen. It is something Creator does; changing hearts in the same way Creator changes the seasons.

I once heard this story: There were two warriors from different tribes who met in battle many times. Over time, as one of those warriors lived honorably, showing kindness even to those who didn’t like him, the other eventually put down his weapon. They became friends, and their people learned peace. It was not human pride that brought this change, but Creator’s Spirit working through a life that walked in itma’aaksha.

Walking the path of itma’aaksha doesn’t mean you’re weak. It takes a great deal of strength to remain peaceful when others keep stirring the pot. It takes courage to speak truth with gentleness and to resist the desire for revenge. But when we live in a way that pleases Grandfather, Creator’s Spirit can soften even the hardest heart.

This proverb is a reminder that our greatest power is not in our fists or our mouth, but in walking in a good way with Creator. Creator is the one who can turn our enemies into friends and division into unity. So walk in a good way like one whose footsteps please Grandfather. Don’t seek vengeance or stir up fights, but live your life like dancers who together step in rhythm to the beat of the drum. Then even those who are at war with you may find themselves drawn into the dance circle of peace.

Prayer

Tamánwiła, Creator, Giver of peace,
guide our steps so they bring honor to you.
Where there is conflict, help us to be people of peace.
Soften the hearts of those who hate us,
and teach us to walk humbly and in a good way.
May our steps in life please you,
and may your Spirit turn our enemies into friends.