If we look at our deepest regrets and sources of pain we will find ourselves on the subject of broken relationships; those that never came to reconciliation. Why is this? It leaves a stress fracture in our soul that causes offense to mount, allowing roots of bitterness to spring up and defile us.
RELEVANCE
What we don’t realize is that offense causes you to construct fences to protect self. Unfortunately, the fences or walls are built with counterfeit materials that cause more problems than meets the eye. This is because harboring offense only predisposes you to constant turmoil because it keeps you in a defensive posture, constantly anticipating attack and harm. It creates a siege mentality. It impairs your judgment and perspective on life, causing you to live overacting to sensitive situations, responding to people and their actions in inappropriate ways. It keeps you bound in a perpetual state of conflict. It restrains your capacity to forgive and appropriate Christ’s redemption and forgiveness—which will set you free and bring you to a state of peace with God.
So why do we shy away from reconciliation? Most of us tend to avoid confrontation. Our natural tendency is to take the path of least resistance. Unfortunately that only exacerbates tensions, causing greater anxiety or depression. God would have us take the path of humility and initiate reconciliation. It takes communication and open dialogue; simple face-to-face conversation.
Don’t know how to start the process? Look to David. He faced constant conflict from those on a mission to kill him. He first found comfort in God’s presence. There he found strength to face his greatest foes. “You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings” (Psalm 23:5 NLT).
REFLECT AND RELATE
Think of the cost of offense. What potential opportunities could you miss from being blinded by bitterness or constrained by confusion?
Ask the Holy Spirit to comfort you and bring His peace.
Pray for the appropriate time and manner to approach the other person.
REFERENCES
Matthew 5:21-26; Romans 5:6-11; 2 Corinthians 5:20-21