Choosing The Path of Reconciliation
ICS Daily Devotions
Matthew 18:21-22 (NKJV) Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.
Do you know that when we keep records of the wrongs of what others have done to us, it harms our souls? Doing so can lead to resentment and bitterness in our hearts. We will lose our peace, love, and joy, and our souls will not prosper when we internalise all the pain and hurt inflicted upon us. We might even develop preconceived ideas about people with specific personalities, making it challenging to develop friendships. We have knowingly or unknowingly built a shield around ourselves as a coping mechanism to prevent us from further pain. After experiencing hurt and betrayal, we tend to be less trusting of others. However, it is not healthy to be suspicious, as this leads to poor mental health. If we do not choose to forgive and reconcile with one another, we may find ourselves lashing out in anger for no apparent reason, as the anger is triggered from within our souls.
We have been taught in Scripture to reconcile with those who have hurt or wronged us because we will not prosper in our souls if we continue to bicker over it or isolate ourselves from our friendships. Sometimes, even though we feel lousy, we choose not to apologise or make good the relationship. The Holy Spirit is grieved when we ignore His prompting. However, when we walk in the Spirit, we will do the right thing by picking up the phone or initiating a cup of coffee with the affected party to restore the relationship. We will prosper in our souls if we choose the path of reconciliation.
Meanwhile, we must accept that reconciliation depends on both parties and not everyone wants it. Nevertheless, forgiveness is still possible if we release the person rather than “imprison” them by clinging to grudges and resentment. Forgiveness removes the power we give to past incidents to torment us in the realm of the soul. Consider that you achieve closure concerning the offense if you are the one to initiate the reconciliation, even if you are met with a rejection.
The Bible teaches us how to live the new life in Christ through the “new man”. When we do not grieve the Holy Spirit, we are walking in the Spirit and not gratifying the desires of the flesh. Learn to forgive and keep no record of wrong. Remember, God desires us to prosper on our journey regarding our souls and health. Therefore, choosing to forgive and not allowing hurt and resentment to develop into bitterness is a step forward in the healing process.
Sermon Series： Prospering In All Things
