The Altar

Good morning, my friend!  Good morning, Father!

“Leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” - Matthew 5:24. 

Lord, relationships can be a LOT of work.  Differences of opinion, harsh, cutting words and ill feelings serve to divide us, not only from the other person, but also from You.  We don’t want anything that would serve as a barrier in our relationship with You!  We want nothing that would prevent us from hearing from You, or that might stay Your hand of blessing!  It is hard to humble ourselves to ask for forgiveness, and equally hard to approach someone who has offended us for the purpose of reconciliation, especially if they have not offered an apology.  

Holy Spirit, come!  Change our hearts.  Make us more passionate about being reconciled than about being right.  Help us to listen in order to understand, instead of merely hearing so we can prepare our response.  Help us to compromise where to do so would not dishonor You.  Where we cannot compromise, help us to be able to lovingly agree to disagree, find points of mutual agreement and celebrate those things.  

Father, I lift my friend.  Help them to follow Your example of self sacrifice for the purpose of reconciliation.  Help them to humbly make the first move, regardless of who is at fault.  Guard their heart from careless, hurtful words and actions.  Even if their actions are misunderstood or rejected, give them joy in their obedience.  May their foremost hope be that their side of the equation gains a clear conscience and clean slate. Then, may they come before You and receive healing, wisdom and answers.  May their arms, unburdened by record books full of offenses, be free to receive Your blessings.  

Thank You for loving us first, and for making the first move in reconciliation with us.  Help us to do the same with our brother.  In Jesus Name ❤️

If you have been encouraged or challenged, PLEASE pass it along!


Four minutes and 58 seconds of brilliance... https://www.northcoastchurch.com/messages/247-daily-dose/

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