When we read the scriptures that talk about our relationships with each other; one thing stands out. How we get a long with others has a direct affect on our own relationship with God.
So much so that if we are angry with somebody, the Word says to get up from the altar and go work it out before you pray (Matt. 5:23-24)
Certainly, people can do and say mean things! Sadly, even Christians can offend each other. Thanks to the devil and his favorite tool, the magnifying glass, small insults can feel big and big hurts can feel HUGE.
All of us have been angry with somebody at one time or other. The devil loves to use our disagreements to get between us and our Lord. No matter what the disagreement is over; is the argument really worth compromising your relationship with Jesus?
It’s especially frustrating when you’ve tried to work things out with a person and nothing you do mends the rift. Since satan’s ultimate goal is to destroy our relationship with Jesus; be assured, the evil one works from both sides of a disagreement!
Even when the other person is to blame; search your own heart. If needs be, ask forgiveness for whatever your ‘part’ in the disagreement is. If the other person is not willing to reconcile, you have made your heart pure before God so the anger doesn’t come between you and your Lord.
The anger your friend holds must be worked out within their own heart; pray for them. There is no anger, bitterness, betrayal or misdeed that is worth hindering our relationship with Jesus.
Mark 11:25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins
Prayer: Father, help me to not hold a grudge. Show me how to forgive and move on and how to be sensitive to the feelings of others. I want to represent the love of Christ in all I do. Amen.
Scripture Reference:
Matthew 5:23-24 Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.