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November 9, 2012

Relational Repair

Written by Boyd Bailey

Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- November 9, 2012

“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Relationships are in regular need of repair. Like a well-driven car they require scheduled maintenance and tender care. Indeed, relationships fall into disrepair if neglected, taken for granted or misunderstood. Healthy relational repair requires humility and seeking to understand another’s needs. It is a prayerful process that is never finished this side of heaven. Past relational deposits are not adequate for current emotional connections.
It is our real time relational repair that contributes to building trust and intimacy. Wise are we to keep short accounts by forgiving insensitive actions, angry outbursts and not harboring hurt. Yes, we can forgive without being reconciled, but by God’s grace there can be a return to good graces. We seek to move beyond forgiveness to reconciliation because Jesus has reconciled us to Himself. His grace reconnects severed relationships.
“Blessed is the one 
whose sin the Lord will never count against them.” Romans 4:8

Have you forgiven a friend, but still feel disconnected by distrust? What will it take to mend your mistrust? Perhaps time will heal your wounds and grow your confidence in their character. Furthermore for your faith to be reinstated in a broken trust there needs to be intentionality. Pray for your friend or spouse to be reconciled to God and daily recalibrated by His truth. Reconciliation with people begins with reconciliation to God.

Jesus calls you to the ministry of reconciliation. This is not an option but an obligation. Like Christ, you do not count another’s sin against them. You show mercy because the Lord has shown you mercy. By faith lift the anchor on your ship of reconciliation and sail from the harbor of hurt. Jesus draws you to Himself, so you can draw others to yourself. The world takes notice when you repair relationships—bringing glory to the Reconciler!

“For from Him [Christ] and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen” Romans 11:36

Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me a heart to reconcile with those whom I distrust.

Related Readings: Psalm 32:1-2; Romans 11:15; Colossians 1:20-22; Ephesians 5:21

Post/Tweet this today: We can forgive without being reconciled, but by God’s grace there can be a return to good graces. #trust

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Comments

  1. Tammy Michael Alexander via Facebook says:
    November 9, 2012 at 11:53 am

    Perfect timing. Thanks!

  2. Stephen Billiard via Facebook says:
    November 9, 2012 at 3:08 pm

    Lord I am reconciled to you.

  3. Kathryn says:
    November 9, 2012 at 5:09 pm

    GOD is AWESOME! I needed this today!

  4. Mary Lou says:
    November 9, 2012 at 6:03 pm

    I have gone throughout my Christian life forgiving others and not really being intentional in reconciling my relationship with them. This inspired word of encouragement could not come at a more perfect timing! May the Lord continue to reveal His truths to you as you boldly share them with the nations.

  5. And my spirit leaped in agreement! says:
    November 9, 2012 at 8:25 pm

    Amen! This is a beautiful devotional! I will read it for the next few weeks, get it into my spirit, study the scriptutes, and ask God to assist us with His Holy Spirit!

    I want to obey this devotional because I know that God has forgiven me for some serious stuff.

  6. Pingback: Do what He says | Ian Acheson
  7. Alam Gir via Facebook says:
    November 11, 2012 at 12:54 am

    No kiddin’ Tammy!…wow?

Comments are closed.

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