Resolutions You Can Keep (Part 6)

Reconcile:
Once we determine to continually reconnect with God throughout our day, then we must decide to take the necessary steps to reconcile not only ourselves with others, but to work at reconciliation between all human beings. 2 Corinthians 5:18 tells us that through Jesus, we have been given personal peace with God, as well the responsibility of bringing that peace to others. Transformation that truly reflects and glorifies Christ in our world requires dedication to this ministry of reconciliation.

We must begin to build bridges of peace by:

1. Building and repairing personal relationships. The Apostle Paul wrote that as far as it depends on us, we are to do whatever is possible to live at peace with everyone. (See Romans 12:18). Not just those who agree with you, not just those who look or sound like you. Not just those who think the same way, vote the same way, dress the same way – or even pray the same way. No, everyone. And we are to do everything we can to make this possible. For many of us, this means that it is time to take any and all steps necessary to forgive, heal, and release past hurts; as well as to confess and ask forgiveness for those whom we have hurt.

2. Identifying and eliminating division and barriers between people groups. "Blessed are the peacemakers,” Jesus said, “for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9) “We” vs. “them” – “tribal” thinking. It goes to the root of our human identity. We cluster into groups and subgroups. “We” are always right, and “ours” is always the right way. But the Bible says that in Christ we have a NEW identity, and with that a new association. One people, one family! We have been given the ministry of bringing all mankind -- and thier "uniqueness" -- into that family! (See 2 Corinthians 5).

3. Committing to pray for the unity of all mankind. I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

What do you truly believe about the power of prayer? The proof is in the practice! I recently read a devotional by an amazing man of peace who has dedicated his life to working with and for the cause of the persecuted. He writes, (because of the nature of his work I will keep his name anonymous),

Have you ever prayed for terrorists in Al-Qaeda or Hamas or Taliban or Islamic Jihad or Hezbollah? Let's be more specific. Have you ever prayed for Osama bin Laden?… If you say you did not pray, then "Is that the reason Osama is what he is-because we didn't pray?" Can we pray him into the kingdom? Or can we neutralize his hatred and effectiveness by prayer? Let's go on a prayer offensive! Let's contest with the devil for the soul of the man, not with military might but with the Gospel. After all, God is in the business of transforming lives.

These are strong words, challenging words, transforming words. How important is praying for the unity and salvation of all mankind to you? How important was it for Christ? He gave His life for it.

Lord show me who I need to be reconciled with. Help me to take the steps necessary to do this in a healthy and godly way. Show me what barriers I need to begin to remove in my family, community, church, and world. Unite and empower the prayers of all believers for the peace of all mankind. Amen

Be sure to check out Robyn's Thoughts @ http://robynhenk.blogspot.com/ for book suggestions, daily scripture reading, and more! Happy New Year.