DAILY INSPIRATION Saturday November 4. 2023.

NOVEMBER SCRIPTURE: 2 CORINTHIANS 5V16-21.

THEME: “EMBRACING RECONCILIATION”

RECONCILIATION SERIES

DAY 4: SATURDAY NOVEMBER 4. 2023.

TODAY’S INSPIRATION: MATTHEW 18V15-17.

“¹⁵ ¶ Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

¹⁶ But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

¹⁷ And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” (KJV)

INSPIRATION NOTE:

Matthew 18:15-17 provides powerful teachings from Jesus about reconciliation and conflict resolution within Christian communities. In these verses, Jesus outlines a step-by-step process for resolving disputes, emphasizing the importance of addressing conflicts directly and with love.

The passage begins with Jesus advising that if someone has wronged you, go and discuss the matter privately with them. This initial step highlights the significance Jesus places on fostering open communication and seeking resolution one-on-one. Jesus encourages individuals to approach the conversation humbly, authentically, and with a sincere desire for reconciliation.Should this initial attempt fail to resolve the issue, Jesus instructs involving a few more trustworthy individuals as mediators.

This approach aims to bring objectivity, impartiality, and accountability into the process. By involving others, Jesus emphasizes the importance of seeking wise counsel and addressing the conflict within the larger Christian community, rather than allowing divisions to persist.If the offender still refuses to listen or acknowledge their wrongdoing, the final step proposed by Jesus involves bringing the matter before the entire church community.

This collective involvement underscores the communal responsibility to address conflicts, promote reconciliation, and maintain the unity of the body of Christ.Overall, the teachings conveyed in Matthew 18:15-17 encourage believers to prioritize reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity. Jesus emphasizes the significance of addressing conflicts promptly, directly, and with an attitude of love and humility. By following these principles, Christians can cultivate an environment of reconciliation and healing within their communities.

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father,

We humbly come before you in search of guidance and healing. Grant us the divine wisdom to understand the depth and importance of brotherly love in our lives. We ask for your mercy and grace to mend broken relationships and reconcile hearts that have grown distant.

May we embrace empathy and compassion, seeing one another as your beloved children. Help us to let go of bitterness, resentment, and the burdens of the past, replacing them with forgiveness and understanding. Fill our hearts with humility, that we may seek reconciliation rather than revenge.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen