Repairing Relationships

We have all been hurt by people in our life. Forgiveness is a choice we make for ourselves so we can live in freedom (whether the offender deserves it or not). The Bible has alot to say about forgiveness. Here are just a few verses:

Matthew 6:12,14-15 "...and forgive us our sins, just as we have forgiven those who have sinned against us. If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Matthew 18:21-22 Then Peter came to him and asked, "Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?" "No!" Jesus replied, "seventy times seven!

Mark 11:24-25 "Listen to me! You can pray for anything, and if you believe, you will have it. But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too."

Luke 23:34 Jesus said, "Father, forgive these people, because they don't know what they are doing."

Colossians 3:13 You must make allowance for each other's faults and forgive the person who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.

We have also been responsible for hurting people in our life. It's not always easy to think or remember whom we may have hurt along the way. If you are having trouble thinking of anybody, perhaps these questions will help:

* Is there anyone to whom you owe a debt that you haven't repaid? A friend, family member, a business?

* Is there anyone you've broken a promise to? A spouse, a child?

* Is there anyone you are guilty of controlling or manipulating? A spouse, child, brother, employee, friend?

* Have you been verbally, emotionally, or physically abusive to anyone?

* Is there anyone you have not appreciated or paid attention to?

* Is there anyone you have been unfaithful to?

* Have you lied to anyone?

If God should happen to bring to mind anyone as you read this list, then here is what Jesus says to do before the next worship service:

Matthew 5:23-24 "So if you are standing before the altar in the Temple, offering a sacrifice to God, and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there beside the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.

Will there be anyone left in the worship service on Sunday? I guess we'll just have to wait and see...