By Akpeli Othuke Andrew
There is no point asking God for other things when you haven’t made things right with those you need to forgive, or ask forgiveness from. Jesus said, “… If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary…” (Matt. 5:23-25 NIV). Don’t be led by your wounded ego; be led by God’s Word.
You may say, ‘But the person I had the issue with is no longer around. I can’t get a hearing, yet in my heart I’m still troubled about it.’ In this case the Bible says, ‘Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much’ (James 5:16). Share your feelings with someone worthy of your trust. Pray with them, openly confessing your wrong and the guilt you feel. You will be surprised how prayer and the presence of an affirming friend can provide you with the peace of mind you seek.
After David murdered Uriah, his lover’s husband, his guilt was overwhelming. It could just wiped him out. When he could take it no more, he broke his silence and sought God’s forgiveness, but Uriah was not around to hear his confession; he had been dead almost a year. So David turned to Nathan the prophet and poured out his heart saying, ‘I have sinned,’ Nathan listened patiently, and then said, ‘The Lord has taken away your sin.’
Follow David’s example, and then move forward with confidence.
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