APOLOGIES

Mark messed up. He arrived an hour late at a restaurant where he was meeting a friend from church. The friend had already left. Feeling sorry about his mistake, Mark got a gift certificate from the restaurant and stopped at a local card shop to search for an apology card. Among hundreds of cards, he was surprised to find only a few “sorry for my actions” cards in
a forgotten part of the shop. He got one and gave it to his friend who accepted his apology.

Although “I’m sorry” cards may not be popular, apologies are always needed in our relationships. Apologising is a biblical action. Jesus told His followers to make things right with anyone we’ve hurt or upset (MATTHEW 5:23-24; 18:15-20). Paul later said, “If it is possible, as far as depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (ROMANS 12:18). Living at peace means we have to accept where we’ve gone wrong, and do our best to make up for it.

Apologies can be hard to make because it takes humility to admit our mistake, which may not come naturally for us. Yet taking responsibility for how we were wrong in a situation can bring healing and growth to a relationship.

Have you messed up? Swallow your pride and make the first move—even if you can’t find a card to help you say it.

Thinking it over . . .

Is there anyone you have upset recently? Why not get in touch
with them today and say sorry.

THE BEST WAY TO GET THE LAST WORD IS
TO SAY SORRY.

YouTh Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries