The pain of the past

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. - Ephesians 4:32

The American Civil War was the bloodiest conflict ever fought on American soil, leaving close to 750,000 people dead from the North and the South. Two men on opposing sides, Confederacy President Jefferson Davis and Union General Ulysses S. Grant, had a sharp disdain for one another.

After both of their deaths, their widows, Varina Davis and Julia Grant, settled near each other. Despite the bad blood that existed for years between their husbands, the two became very close friends for the remainder of their lives.

When it comes to reconciliation, perspective is everything. Had the two widows met during the Civil War, they likely never would have become friends. But when the conflict was over, they were able to put aside their differences and have a relationship.

Reconciliation is difficult – but it’s a biblical command. In the Christian life, forgiveness isn’t optional. Even with your most bitter enemies, the call on the life of a believer is to forgive and move toward reconciliation with all people.

That’s hard for many to hear, especially those who have felt utterly betrayed and abandoned for years. But seek forgiveness and reconciliation. Move past the pain of the past and let God heal your broken relationships!

Prayer Challenge

Pray and ask God to give you an attitude of forgiveness toward others who’ve wronged you in the past.

Questions for Thought

Why do you think letting go of past pain and moving toward reconciliation is so difficult for many?

Who is someone with whom you can clear the air and begin moving toward reconciliation today?