Taking the Step Toward Reconciliation

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.”

MATTHEW 18:15

 

PONDER THIS

What does the Bible say to do when people trespass against you? Go to them. You lovingly visit and confront them. How are you to visit them? Do so privately. When people sin against you, don’t gossip about them. Address your grievances with them, talk to them, and take the step toward forgiveness and reconciliation.

Human nature says, “He sinned against me. If he wants me to forgive him, let him come to me.” But when we look at Scripture, we are called to live differently. Am I supposed to seek reconciliation and forgiveness? Absolutely. Why? Because the Bible says we’re to be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving one another. How? As God forgave us. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” In response, when someone sins against us, we do not have the luxury of waiting for them to come to us. We go to them as Christ has come to us.

How do you respond when you have an argument with someone? What are some ways you move away from people instead of moving toward them?

What is most challenging for you about moving toward reconciliation? How can God help you with that challenge?

PRACTICE THIS

Have a conversation with someone you have been at odds with. Be intentional about showing the love and forgiveness of Christ.

LWF Dr. Adrian Rogers