Sunday, January 27, 2013 I Am Sorry

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

The three hardest words some people have saying are "I am sorry."  The truth is we are to take accountability for our actions. We should not wait for the other person to say it first. Once we say it, we then need to let God be the enforcer.  No need to say anymore for we now know the Lord will handle it.  "Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16 The Lord expects and commands us to forgive others as He has forgiven us. When we take responsibility for our actions and immediately repent to one another, it diffuses strife. For strife, tension and anger are spirits of the enemy.  Our homes should be filled with the Holy Spirit of peace, joy and love.  I am a softie for anyone that says they are sorry, when it is sincere. Understand, true repentance comes with a sincere heartfelt apology and when I know the person truly is sorry, all is forgiven with me. I forget all about it and move on. Isn't that what we all would want in return? The hardest thing for me to accept is when someone else refuses my apology or they accept it but then still "hold it" against me.  A dear friend of mine shared with me that she used to have a hard heart like that. She would get angry with someone then never speak to them again and realized over time that if she continued on this path, she would end up alone.  And she had to learn to forgive.  What a valuable lesson for her.  God gave her the grace to change.  And that is what he wants for you and me.  Listen, when we hold something against another and harbor unforgiveness in our hearts, we are hurting ourselves. How can we expect God to forgive us when we fail to forgive another?  Life is too short for unforgiveness. Think of all the relationships that you have in your life that survived storms.  Weren't they worth fighting for? Wasn't saying "I am Sorry" worth it?  Humble yourselves and be the bigger person for forgiveness comes with the cross.  Don't let the enemy tear your relationships apart. Forgive in your heart and repent to one another.  You will be so blessed you did and so free.  And most importantly, you will be so pleasing to God the Father. And  that is the greatest reward of all. Happy Sunday!!

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18

Give your Heart to Jesus Today...CLICK HERE!