Psalm 133:1 – How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! (NIV)

A number of years ago, a family member wrote a letter of apology to me concerning their behaviour in the past. That letter changed our relationship immediately. A relationship which had always been somewhat strained became warm and comfortable, all because someone was humble enough to regretfully acknowledge their offence, and someone else was humble enough to accept their peace offering.

What a difference something as simple as a heartfelt apology can make when it comes to establishing and maintaining unity. And yet, apologies are often anything but simple for many people. Pride has a way of keeping us from even acknowledging that we may be in the wrong, much less allowing the thought to enter our mind that an apology may be in order. Pride can also be the villain which hardens our heart not to accept a sincere apology when it is offered.

How many relationships, friendships, even families have been ruined when a sincere apology or the acceptance of an apology could have turned things around, re-established unity, and prepared a place for love to flourish once again?

Today, perhaps you are aware of a strained relationship between yourself and someone else. If so, perhaps an apology, if you are in the wrong, or the acceptance of an apology which may come your way will be all that it takes to re-establish unity and the blessing of the Lord which comes when humility leads the way.

Prayer: Father God, how good and pleasant it is when we live together in unity, one with another. Bless us this day with humble, honest, and forgiving hearts to do what is right in Your sight. Re-establish friendships, families, work relationships, and neighbours, as sincere apologies flow through the prompting of Your Holy Spirit in the lives of Your people. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lynne Phipps <lynnephippsatlin@gmail.com>
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada
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