Do Good. Be Well.
Applying Biblical principles to your daily life can be a daunting and overwhelming endeavor. Sometimes it’s helpful to have a study which shows how the ancient text of the Bible is still applicable to modern life.
The MeatyWord Series is such a study — it explores several fundamental principles by delving deep into the Word of God. Each volume combats popular culture practices that hinder progress in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Repentance is so much more than an apology. It’s not something that works by picking and choosing elements that suit you – as The Five Languages of Apology suggests.
Mrs. W had a habit of snapping on people so hard grown women would start crying or stand in front of her quaking. I’m talking about women within her age group, 50’s to late 60’s. She did everything but curse you and your descendents – you’re stupid, you’re ignorant, you don’t know nothing, this is my world, you’re just a squirrel…on and on ridculousness. Then she’d end each meeting with a group hug and prayer.
I had to sit back and think about how so many people have been comfortable treating me so cavalierly and then setting me aside. The answer I came to: I forgave when they asked and forgot their transgressions without requiring anything from them. No expression of repentance, no sincere/specific apology and no attempt to make amends. I was always giving of myself and going home empty.
Now, I’m asking for something in my relationships. I want to be wooed. I want to know you’re not just after a comfortable foot stool or a quiet ear. I need to know you’re interested in contributing to and sustaining a relationship with me. I need to know I’m not in it alone.
EVERYTHING that has come before and since falls under the directive of love. Love is the critical piece that works with forgiveness (for the transgressee & the transgressor). Love allows patience and provides compassion. Love covers every single sin you can imagine. The whole of God’s law is fulfilled when we practice love as instructed.
Harvest Life 