Relational Repair

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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