Consequences, Revisited - 2016

I'm bringing this one back because I am remiss. When this post was first published, back in 2014, I failed to mention that the very first person who gave me a wise, grown-up word on consequences was a friend of mine, S.C.  I had trespassed against others and had indeed hurt them. I sought forgiveness. S.C. told me very plainly, that their treatment, opinion or actual disdain of/for me might just be part of my consequences - and I might not be forgiven.  I needed that word.  I am reminded of this counsel today, as I reflect on my actions of the past and how important it is to make sure, by God's power, there is no guile found in me, and no self-serving motives in my witness. Moving forward in the light of truth - 2016!

A Facebook friend of mine submitted a thoughtful post discussing the consequences we may face for past hurts we've caused others. She was specifically speaking of people who are "repeat offenders" - folks who seem to make a habit of being mean and abusive to friends and loved ones, yet expect the offended parties to always "turn the other cheek" and forgive them. The wisdom she imparted was spot on. Turning the other cheek doesn't mean "the slapper" gets to enjoy the same relationship as before, even though they've been forgiven. The relationship may just have to change - and the one who was "slapped" may choose to love and pray for "the slapper" from afar.  That is a choice someone has the right to make, and a consequence that the forgiven must live with. And the writer was referring to Christians.

That post resonated with me. However, I'm flipping it a bit: when we've hurt someone, have tried to make amends, and they don't forgive us. That's a consequence as well. This consequence shouldn't happen among Christians, as we are to forgive one another -  even if we were "the slapper." After we confess our sin to the Lord, repent of our wrongdoing (meaning turn away from it), go to the party we injured for forgiveness - there is nothing left to do. We must allow God to work whatever He will in that situation.

Prayer works. The Lord can move mightily in the hardest of hearts when we pray. It is the best weapon a believer has when we're faced with problems, tests and trials - including those of our own making. Being unforgiven by someone we've hurt is a fact, and a consequence that may not change.

But I thank God for Jesus! He forgave me before I sinned, when He died on the cross. I accept His forgiveness and only want to live in His will, sharing His message of love and salvation.

And the best consequence of all: a life lived for the Lord, is eternity with the Lord and all those saved in the Kingdom! Amen!