Right Or Reconciled ?

18 Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.
2 Cor 5:17-19 (NASB)

You know I'm thankful that I never say an unkind word to anyone or never say anything hateful to a brother or sister. I'm also very appreciative that I am able to exercise self restraint and hold my tongue in heated situations. It's a wonderful way to live......and if you believe that give me a call, I've got a bridge in Brooklyn.(any takers?smile)

Vines Expository Dictionary has a very detailed and long working for the definition of reconciliation. But, most simply it means to make an exchange from hostility to peace or from enmity to friendship.

Look at those verses namely the last three words of both verses. God gave us the ministry of reconciliation and the word of reconciliation. Now in these verses the reconciliation that the Apostle Paul is talking about is the reconciliation God offers men and women through Jesus. But, once we have accepted Jesus as our Savior then we are called to be reconciled to one another. God makes it very easy to be reconciled to Him. Believe on the Lord Jesus and you shall be saved. Amen? That's easy enough. It's the other reconciliation that gets a little dicey from time to time. Yeah, God is waiting and anxious to be reconciled to you, the next door neighbor however may prove a little more difficult.

 I read a book a long time ago titled "Right or Reconciled?" It was by  pastor Joseph Garlington. The only point that I could recall from that book was the question posed by the title. What's more important to be right or reconciled? Is it more important to win an argument or to be at peace? Let me give you an example from my own life. I had a very dear friend years ago. We were very close, worked together, socialized together you get the picture. Well, we got mad at each other over something and to this day I cannot tell you what it was. We were at odds with one another and neither would give. Understand this was one of the two best friends I had and we weren't even talking to each other. Well, we were able to settle our differences but it never was the same. All over something that I can't even remember now.


15 " Catch the foxes for us, The little foxes that are ruining the vineyards, While our vineyards are in blossom."

Song 2:15 (NASB)


It's the small stuff that causes all the problems. It's the hateful word or the unjust accusation. Or even an innocent look and before you know it you have fired back and the war is on. Jesus said that offenses would come. That is a part of the human condition. But, when those offenses come if we can keep our head about us and our mouths closed, we will be way ahead of the game.

 1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Prov 15:1 (NASB)

If you can't give a gentle answer just turn around and walk away till you can and  cooler heads prevail. Remember that angry word may be the last word you speak to that friend or loved one.

1 O Lord, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? 2 He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, And speaks truth in his heart. 3 He does not slander with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
Psalms 15:1-3 (NASB)


God Bless