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Restoring Broken Relationships

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." (ESV)

Broken relationships affect more than our emotions—they affect our spiritual life. Jesus made it clear that reconciliation with others should be a priority. It's so vital that He tells us to pause our worship if necessary and make things right.

This challenges the common idea that we can be right with God while ignoring unresolved conflict with others. Relationships matter deeply to Him. And He calls us to be peacemakers, even when it's uncomfortable.

Restoring a relationship doesn't mean pretending nothing happened or avoiding hard conversations. It means humbling yourself to seek peace. Sometimes that looks like asking for forgiveness. Other times, it's offering it. Always, it means choosing to honor God over your pride.

Reconciliation might not always be possible, and some people may not be ready. But your role is to take the first step. God sees your heart and your effort. Obedience to His command to seek peace is a form of worship.

Think about any unresolved conflict or distance in your relationships. What's holding you back from addressing it? Fear? Pride? Pain? Bring that to God and ask Him for the courage to pursue healing.

When you pursue reconciliation, you reflect the heart of Jesus—the One who made peace with us when we didn't deserve it. Let His example lead you to forgiveness, humility, and grace.

Challenge:

Identify one relationship that needs healing. Take one humble step this week toward reconciliation—through prayer, a message, or a conversation.

Prayer:

Father, show me where I need to make peace. Please give me the courage and humility to take the first step. Help me to reflect Your grace and forgiveness in my relationships. Amen.