Reconciliation over being Right!

Read: 2 Corinthians 1:23–2:2
But I call God to witness against me—it was to spare you that I refrained from coming again to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, for you stand firm in your faith. For I made up my mind not to make another painful visit to you. For if I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained?

Based on my knowledge of the fiery apostle Paul, he would have wanted nothing else but to avenge himself in Corinth against those who had deserted him, abused him, and mocked him. Throughout his letters, we see the spirited nature of Paul to stand up to those who oppose him, even the apostle Peter at times. Paul does not back down from a fight, yet with Corinth he did not come back to town wielding his power. Instead, he wrote a letter.

The goal for Paul was reconciliation, not retaliation. Paul wanted the relationship redeemed, not himself proved right. That is not easy. It is with great joy that we exclaim, “I told you so!” Paul knew that it was best to write rather than arrive.

I want you to think about a strained relationship you have. Go on, think of that person right now.
How are you handling that situation? Are you seeking to flex your superiority, belittle their ability, or prove your correctness at their expense?

Maybe you have simply ignored them and removed them from your life, for it is far easier to lose a relationship than repair one.

What does seeking reconciliation in that relationship look like?
What pride do you need to lay down?
How can you humbly start repairing what feels unredeemable?

As Christians, I believe it is our responsibility to take the first step (even if the offending party is a Christian). Will you take the first step to reconcile rather than flaunt where you are right?

Jesus even taught that if you are worshiping and remember someone has something against you, then leave worship and reconcile first! Take the first step toward healing today!