4:78 – I Apologize A LOT

#faithbites #faithjourney apologize

Setting

During work today, I realized I stepped on a colleagues toes and sent a quick apology. Then I realized that I apologize a lot. like several times a day. When I think about it, it’s almost always sincere though some people may not think so. I was also reflecting that I don’t remember my parents apologizing a lot or at all. I’m not sure if that didn’t happen or if I’m remembering it wrong. Who knows. Making an apology is the first step in the forgiveness process. I’m glad that Jesus forgives me all my sins.

Today’s questions: Do you apologize a lot? Are you sincere when you apologize? Do you directly ask for forgiveness or leave it ot the person to forgive you?

Scripture

• James 5:16 – Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
• Luke 17:3-4 – Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”

Reflection

Jesus forgives absolutely. The key, as we see in Luke is the act of repentance. If you truly are repentant then you will be forgiven. It doesn’t matter if it’s 7 times a day, you should be forgiven 7 times. Saying, “I’m Sorry” can just be words. When you try to change based on the wrongs you have done, that is truly apologizing.

A beautiful fact about our faith is God doesn’t ask us to be perfect. He wants us to confess our sins, repent, and be healed. It’s a process that involves all sides. This is what can be missing in today’s society. The person who commits the wrong doesn’t apologize, the person who is wronged can’t or won’t forgive, and the cycle repeats.

I know I am truly sorry when I apologize. In some, but not all cases, I ask for forgiveness with my apology.

As we close, remember that no one is perfect and that we all should confess our sins and apologize when we are wrong. Also remember, that our God is an awesome God and nothing is beyond his power to forgive.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for forgiving us our sins. We ask that you help us be more open about apologizing when we wrong someone. Let us admit our faults and be healed through let. We also ask that you help us understand when forgiveness is not given quickly or at all. Heal all of those who are involved in the wronging and forgiving process. Let the wounded heal and the wronger change their ways. We pray all of this in your name, Amen.