RESTORING RELATIONSHIPS #202

It's really something. We cover up wrongdoing with a shower of words and expect sound relationships between one another. Hostility boils under the surface just waiting for an opportunity to erupt. And when it does, we know real reconciliation has not been achieved. The real problem is our failure to deal with sin directly. When we are reconciled to God, He convicts us of our sins. Then we beg His forgiveness on the basis of Christ's death on the cross. We trust that Christ's sacrifice has paid the penalty we owe for our sins.

The same principle applies to each of our human relationships. Look at what Jesus said, "If therefore you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother" (Matthew 5:23-23). In other words, your brother believes you have sinned against him. Now you cannot simply sweep this sin under the rug and expect a solid friendship to be renewed. You must confess your sin and seek forgiveness. Hostilities can subside only when sin is dealt with openly and honestly.

You see, there can be real healing in every broken relationship if we are willing to follow the example of how God deals with each of us.

If you're interested, there is more information about:
The most important event of all time and
The most important Book of all time.

email this message to a friend   |   DW Home

For a free audiotape on this subject, call 1-800-777-0389 email: freetapes@wordfortheweek.org; or visit: www.wordfortheweek.organd hear sermons at www.sermonaudio.com/rptsprof