Worshipping God is a very significant event that nothing should interrupt, right? Not the telephone nor the doorbell nor anything else. Yet, the Bible says, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you… First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24).
You’ve just started praying, “Dear Father, thank You for Your greatness. I love You so much. I worship You….” “Wait just a minute,” God says, “Stop right there–we have a problem.” And then He speaks to your heart about that obnoxious person you had an argument with yesterday. “First, go make peace with him;” says God, “then we’ll talk.”
Now, I’ve seen a lot of people walk out of church services for various reasons. But as far as I remember I’ve never seen anyone leave in the middle of a worship service to go make things right with someone who was angry with him. Yet, when you think how much it cost God to die on the cross to restore our relationship with Him, is it any surprise that He expects us to keep relationships right with one another? I’m sure you agree theoretically, but it’s being obedient that’s the problem.
Most of us would rather do anything than confront. It’s easier to send a letter—or a gift—or ask a mutual friend to talk to that person. Nevertheless, God doesn’t say to wait until it’s comfortable to confront. He says, “Do it—even before you pray or worship.”
So, the next time you’re in church—or on your knees, and you remember that someone is angry with you over an unresolved issue, “first go and be reconciled,” said Jesus. “Then come back and talk to Me.”
I don’t think we have the luxury of ignoring God’s command. If you don’t agree, try explaining your reasons to God.
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