Want to Reconcile? Don't Resist Repenting

Forgiveness is a demonstration of kindness that portrays turning away from bitterness to an attitude of repentance and reconciliation. Yet there's something about human nature that resists taking the initiative to be repentant and forgiving. Recognizing and overriding that resistance must be addressed, however, if forgiveness is to be successful.

When a Christian chooses sin over fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ, a barrier to communion evolves. If fellowship is to be restored, an attitude of repentance and confession must be a priority. We may concede that repentance is necessary for reconciliation with God but hesitate or refuse to concede that it’s a vital step to reconciliation with people.

If forgiveness is to be successful, sincere feelings of remorse must be felt for having caused pain and suffering. Repentance, prompted by feelings of remorse, encourages the seeker of forgiveness to discontinue behaviors that caused suffering and pain. To do so is saying yes to the Holy Spirit and is a choice for healing a broken relationship.  

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Now you must turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out, that your souls may know the times of refreshment which come from the presence of the Lord.

~Acts 3:19 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

Admit your faults to one another and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous man has great power and wonderful results.

~James 5:16 The Living Bible