Forgiveness and Worship

“If therefore you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering. Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way, in order that your opponent may not deliver you to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison.” Matthew 5:23-25

Our ability to worship God often depends on our relationship with other people. It is difficult to maintain an intimate relationship with Him when we struggle with bitterness, resentment, or anger toward others.

In Matthew 5, Jesus told the people to leave their offerings at the altar and go be reconciled to those who had hurt or offended them (verse 24). He knew that in order for them to enjoy unbroken fellowship with God, they must be in a right relationship with those around them.

Relationships are very important to God. When He created you, He did so with fellowship in mind - first with Himself and then with others. Very often the way we relate to one another is the way we relate to God.

If you are loving and concerned about others, chances are you will be the same toward God. However, if you are resentful, jealous, or suspecting, you will probably have a hard time accepting God’s love and acceptance of you.

Forgiveness is not always easy. Deep, emotional scars can remain for years. Nevertheless, the first step toward true freedom and peace is forgiveness. When you do this, God will take care of what others have done to you in the past. When you extend forgiveness, God’s peace and forgiveness can be fully experienced.