3:293 – I Was Wrong And I’m Sorry

#faithbites #faithjourney wrong

Setting

Are you every wrong? Have you ever hurt someone? If you are human, the answer is yes. We all screw up. Even with the best intentions, we make mistakes.

In the past couple of days, I’ve had people wrong me and it ticked me off. Not that they did it, heck we all do, but they never said sorry. I’m not talking about a full apologize or seeking forgiveness, just saying something as simple as, “Sorry man, I that came off wrong”, or “Dude, I’m sorry I was ticked when I responded.”

I’m over it now. The reason it is still in my head is my youngest asked if my father ever apologized or said he was sorry when he messed up. I told her I can’t remember him saying that. It doesn’t mean he didn’t, I just don’t remember it.

When you mess up, do you say you’re sorry? If you don’t, what impact on the other person would it have if you did?

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.
• Matthew 5:23-24 – So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Reflection

Our two selections today really get to heart of saying you are sorry. The first says we should confess our sins to one another and pray for healing. As we’ve discussed many times, prayer is powerful. This verse isn’t placing blame, but being in communion with each other and inviting Jesus into the process.

Our second selection was new to me. Giving an offering to God is core of who we are. That offering can be prayer, financial, or service. God tells us that he wants us to heal our relationships with each other before giving to him. It’s that important to be reconciled as one in Christ.

As we go on from here, think about what you may be sorry for and tell the person. It’s a way to improve that relationship and follow God’s teachings. Let us live in harmony and when we mess up, let’s apologize, forgive, and grow.

Challenge

Have you wronged someone either intentionally or unintentionally lately? If so, just say you are sorry. How they respond isn’t at the fire of the issue but how you act is. Maybe they will forgive you, maybe not. But you are taking the first step.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, help us confess our sins to one another. Let us say we are sorry when we wrong one another. It’s hard to admit being wrong, so we seek your guidance. Let these wrongs be aired and forgiven so we can move on.

Lord, we know this is hard for us but easy for you. Please help us. We pray this in your name, Amen.