Yesterday we talked about winning when we forgive and the power of reconciliation. Today we take a look at why reconciliation is necessary.
Nothing ever really feels right the morning after a big fight. It doesn't matter who you blew up at... your roommate, your spouse, or your kid, the tension in the air is unmistakable. Repairing a relationship often takes more than simply saying "I'm sorry" and moving on. Real reconciliation requires repentance. Repentance requires some sort of change. Proverbs 28:13 says, "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy."
Nothing gets resolved by pretending everything is fine, but expressing genuine remorse and taking those steps to make it right. That is how reconciliation begins. It takes one person to repent, but two people to reconcile. The person who has been hurt has a choice to make as well: Will you choose to forgive? Bitterness is empowering for a moment. After all, who doesn't like the feeling of being right? But bitterness will destroy a relationship if we give it a home within our homes. Holding onto bitterness and refusing to forgive is one common way we repay evil for evil (Romans 12:17). The Bible challenges us to be peacemakers. "... as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" (Romans 12:18). We can't make someone else repent, but we can choose to forgive. That part of peacemaking is entirely up to us. Reconciliation is focused on restoring broken relationships, not approving of someone's sin. It's acknowledging the sin and choosing to repent... to change. It,s seeing someone's vulnerability and choosing to forgive. And when both sides participate willingly, it's a perfect picture of what Jesus did for us.
Today's Reflection:
How does conflict get resolved in your home? Or, does it?
Where trust is deeply broken, restoration is a process - sometimes, a lengthy one. Is there anyone you need to take a step toward today?
At Anchor Church, we exist to love and lead one another with the hope of Jesus. We hope this devotional is an encouragement and an inspiration.
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