Friday: Forgiveness and Consequences: Navigating Sin's Aftermath

Week 4: Seeking Reconciliation with God and Others

Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21

Devotional: Reconciliation is a really big word!!  It basically means that two people have changed from a state of brokenness or division to a state of unity or healing. Unlike David's half-hearted reconciliation with Absalom, God offers us complete reconciliation or complete healing through Christ. The wounds are healed. The debt is paid. And all is made right with God thanks to the blood of Christ. We are called to be "ambassadors of reconciliation" in our relationships with others. This means that we should live in a way that is grateful for God’s reconciliation. And we should also live in a way that encourages others to walk together in unity.

Reflect on your role as God's ambassador. Are there relationships in your life that need reconciliation? 

Identify some practical steps you can take to initiate or further the reconciliation process. Remember that true reconciliation often requires vulnerability and humility. 

Pray for God's guidance and courage as you seek to live out your calling as a minister of reconciliation, both in your relationship with God and with others.

Prayer:  God, I am so thankful that through Jesus, we are reconciled to You both today and for eternity.  I ask that your Spirit guides me today and that I will never forget the power of the unity that I have with You.  Help me also to not only be reconciled, but to be used by you to help bring others from division to unity and from brokenness to healing.  In Jesus’ name, amen.