Step Eight Acknowledging Broken Relationships
God’s desire is for us to enjoy loving and caring relationships with others. We have much to learn in this area. We’ve blamed others for the way they treated us in the past. However, we have not been mindful of how our behaviour harmed others. Transformation in our lives only comes when our words and actions conform to the principles contained in God's word.
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. (Matthew 5:23-24 NIV)
It is challenging to write down the name of each person we had a painful relationship with and seek to know and own our part in whatever happened. To become truly willing to make amends for any harm we caused in the relationship we must look for God in the middle of each circumstance or memory. We must intentionally connect with God who knows, who cares, who heals, and who can even make something good out of the hurtful events of our past. We must receive love and comfort and healing from God, or we’ll never feel secure enough to forgive others or ourselves for failure to act in a loving way.
1 John 4:7-8, 20 NLT)
It's time to turn from the wounding and the blaming and look to God for His guidance in rebuilding healthy relationships.
Prayer: Loving God, I humbly acknowledge my inability to give and receive love. I believe you care for me and have pursued me with Your unfailing love. Show me the changes I need to make in order that I may become willing to make amends. As I go forward, help me to build my relationships on the firm foundation of love. Amen
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