7 Minute Study

study 5: Be a Peacemaker

from Alive in Christ by Dallin H. Oaks

April 2026 Conference

for personal use

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In 3 Nephi 12:9 it says: “Blessed are all the peacemakers.”

  • What do you think it looks like to be a peacemaker?

When President Nelson talked about being a peacemaker in April 2023, he mentioned his counselors as examples. As you read what he said, look for what they did that helped them have peaceful, effective conversations.

“My two noble counselors … are exemplary in the way they express their feelings—especially when they may differ. They do so with pure love for each other. Neither suggests that he knows best and therefore must rigorously defend his position. Neither evidences the need to compete with the other. Because each is filled with charity, “the pure love of Christ,” our deliberations can be guided by the Spirit of the Lord.” -Russell M. Nelson (April 2023 Conference)

As you look at the following statements, look for some things we need to let go of in order to be peacemakers.

– 1 –

“My brothers and sisters, as followers of Christ, let us follow Him by forgoing contention and by using the language and methods of peacemakers. In our families and other personal relationships, let us avoid what is harsh and hateful.” -Dallin H. Oaks (April 2026 Conference)

– 2 –

To be peacemakers, we forgive others and deliberately build others up instead of tearing them down. … Peacemaking requires courage and compromise but does not require sacrifice of principle. Peacemaking is to lead with an open heart, not a closed mind. -Gary E. Stevenson (October 2025 Conference)

  • What do you notice that we need to let go of to be a peacemaker?

After talking about being a peacemaker, Russell M. Nelson said:

“At this point you may be thinking that this message would really help someone you know. … But I also hope that you will look deeply into your heart to see if there are shards of pride or jealousy that prevent you from becoming a peacemaker” (April 2023 Conference).

According to Julie and John Gottman, world-renowned relationship psychologists, defensiveness is one of four major problem areas in relationships. They observe that “being defensive never helps to solve the problem at hand” and that, as a result, “the conflict escalates further” (Gottman.com, The Four Horsemen: The Antidotes, January 16, 2026).

  • What are some ways you can see defensiveness getting in the way of being a peacemaker?

The first step in overcoming defensiveness is noticing it.

A next step may be to consider the Gottman’s antidote: “to accept responsibility, even if only for part of the conflict.”

As we learn to notice obstacles to peacemaking, consider this reminder from President Nelson about relying on the Savior:

“One of the best ways we can honor the Savior is to become a peacemaker. … In situations that are highly charged and filled with contention, I invite you to remember Jesus Christ. Pray to have the courage and wisdom to say or do what He would. As we follow the Prince of Peace, we will become His peacemakers. …  He will help us to become His peacemakers.” -Russell M. Nelson (April 2023 Conference)

  • What is something you could ask the Lord to help you with as you strive to become a peacemaker?

As you conclude today’s study, consider what you want to remember or what you want to ask or share with God.

Ideas for Further Study

More about Being a Peacemaker

More about Taking Responsibility

This is the end of this 7 Minute Study. Pause to acknowledge and thank yourself for your time and effort to have this experience.

What’s Next

Read President Oaks’ Talk

  • These 5 studies were based on Alive in Christ by Dallin H. Oaks (April 2026 Conference). Take all the awareness and thoughts from these studies into your prayerful study of his complete talk.

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