Trustworthiness: Essential to Reconciliation

Making amends is usually a give-and-take affair between two people, with each person being equally responsible for the success of the effort. The one seeking to make amends must demonstrate humility and sincerity in addition to presenting an attitude of trustworthiness.

  

          The one receiving the offer of reconciliation is responsible for being receptive with humility and sincerity. Esau had every right to hesitate when Jacob attempted to make amends for cheating him out of his birthright and his father's blessing. Instead he reached out to Jacob with love and forgiveness because he saw trustworthiness in Jacob that could not be denied.

          Trustworthiness is essential when one seeks to make amends. For fellowship to be restored, the recipient is responsible for receiving it with an attitude of humility. Esau reached out to Jacob with the blessing of peace by giving him a hug and a kiss. This clearly opened the door for God to bless both brothers. What greater reward could there be for making amends? 

A Sincere Sacrifice of Pride

Picture two brothers greeting each other for the first time in twenty years. One brother is uncertain if the meeting will be friendly or hostile. Jacob did what was required to make amends for deceiving Esau. He offered extravagant gifts to placate his brother's wrath. Now Jacob stood before Esau with only God's promise of protection.

 

          As Jacob approached his brother, he bowed prostrate to the ground seven times indicating total subjection to Esau. Unquestionable sincerity was required if making amends were to fulfill a godly purpose. Genuine sacrifice is indicative of serious intentions to make amends.  

          When there’s a willingness to sacrifice pride to make amends, God will bless the effort. Genesis 33:4 tells us that when Esau observed Jacob's sincerity, he ran to embrace and kiss him. Then they both wept. Making amends has lasting rewards when both parties are receptive to restoring fellowship. God rewards the sacrifice you make for peace.