One of life’s most demanding tasks is admitting to and apologizing for wrong and hurtful behavior. What makes it difficult is being perceived as weak and vulnerable. When a transgression has been committed against you, it takes strength of character and maturity not to retaliate.
Loose talk which portrays someone negatively elicits anger, either directly or indirectly. Loose talk is dangerous for those who have hope for a lasting, committed relationship. Listen to Proverbs 15:14: “A wise person is hungry for the truth, while a mocker feeds on trash.”
If you’ve committed a transgression against someone, take the initiative and make amends even if that person’s hurt has turned to anger and hate. Making things right is what Jesus asked you to do. Be of good courage, for the Holy Spirit will enable you to overcome the humiliation you will face. The gifts of yourself and your offerings that you now bring to God will be received and blessed.
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[Jesus said,] “This is how I want you to conduct
yourselves in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to
make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon
your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then
and only then, come back and work things out with God.”
~Matthew 5:23-24 The Message
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