“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 12:18
May 23, 2023
The ideal for believers in Jesus Christ is to live at peace with others, if they will let you. The best option is what may be called full reconciliation. This is when needed forgiveness has been given and/or received. Trust, honesty, and respect will characterize the relationship. These qualities can be rebuilt over time. There is also partial reconciliation. Recognition of wrongdoing is acknowledged, forgiveness has been both requested and received. However, trust and respect have been so damaged that a deep friendship is hard to come by. Repentance may be only in word but not in deed. As has been pointed out, “when sin is viewed superficially, it is dealt with superficially.” Thirdly, no reconciliation fits into the “if possible.” More on that to follow. What is possible is that as much as is in me, don’t be a hold-out on repentance and forgiveness when needed. We are to look to God to help us not be the hostile person. Are there people who have wronged you? We can be peacemakers as a way of life: Control the tongue (choose our words carefully). Seek godly advisors (don’t isolate yourself). Keep doing what is right. Live in such a way that we are exemplifying what is God’s standard.
H
“Lord, may the banks of love overflow in my life no matter what wrongs I have suffered.”
***Credit is to be given to Erwin Lutzer’s book, When You’ve Been Wronged. Highly recommended.