I'm SORRY!

Remember dealing with your child when they needed to say that they were sorry?  They have pinched someone, taken a toy, tattled etc and you have stepped in and said "Now say you're sorry to your brother"

It's amazing how hard that word is to say.  Many a child has had to be punished simply because they would not follow through with this word, the gaze goes down, the feet shuffle and stubbornness comes to the surface.

So interesting.   

And then after threat upon threat they FINALLY say "I'm SORRY"  You can hear it can't you? A two word sentence filled with rebellion.    It's that "I may be sitting down but I'm standing up on the inside~ type thing."

Sooooo  how you doing with this word in your life now?  Now that you are grown are you able to say it easier?  Have you ever  actually let yourself feel sorry?  Has your heart ever hurt because you have caused someone pain or discomfort?   Are you able to own it?     

Get in front of a mirror and say it....."I'm sorry"   Practice it until it flows easier.  Perhaps you need to actually say you're sorry to yourself for things that you have allowed into your life and choices that have landed you where you are.   Start there first....Forgive yourself don't be caught off guard if you cry, its totally alright.

When dealing with children I have tried to teach that there are three other words that are of equal importance as well and that is "I forgive you"   I feel these words need to be said to "tie up the deal"   If the other person does not say anything you might prompt them by saying "Can you forgive me?"  Be prepared...if they hesitate or say no perhaps the wound is deeper than you realized.  DON'T become irritated and or frustrated .  You have taken time to get to the place to say it , let them have some time as well.   God will give you the grace to be gracious.  Simply say it again and tell them you will be praying that they can find it in their heart to forgive you.

Friends there is SUCH HEALING in these words.  Healing if the words are said with feeling and remorse and salt if they are not.   

 I think that we should look for places and situations where we can say we are sorry.  I think that it makes the ground fertile between two people.  Loosen up, if this blog has riled you dare look at the reason why.  

Beloved you have been forgiven much, allow the Lord to work this into you. It has the power to open closed doors and build bridges where there are done.

Well done good and faithful servant!

Blessings!