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PASTOR'S WEEKLY PONDERING
"A soft answer turns away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge aright; but the mouth of fools pours out foolishness," Proverbs 15:1-2.
There is only one other time when communication breaks down - when silence reigns.
Jesus used all three of these. On the cross He prayed, 'Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.' And at the tomb, He spoke but one word to a grieving woman to change her life completely, 'Mary!' But then there were His fiery words, 'Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! O generation of vipers!' These were strong stinging words. On the other hand, at his trial He spoke nothing to the accusations or questions of Herod who was curious to see a miracle done by Him.
At times, we ask questions and hope the person answers them in truth. When they ask and we answer in truth, communication takes place - and no reliable relationship can take place without TRUTH, be it friend, employer-employee, neighbor, spousal and with God.
Silence refuses to build any relationship whatever.
And of course, anger breaks down relationships.
There is one way to rebuild broken relationships, and that is through forgiveness - when it it is offered and mutually received. God gave us unconditional forgiveness when we ask for it - Romans 10:13: 'Whosoever shall call upon the Lord shall be saved.' Cf. II Cor. 5:19: I John 1:7-9. Joseph forgave his brothers, yet they did not receive forgiveness because they did not accept his apology. (Genesis 45, 50). Is there someone you need to offer forgiveness, or ask for forgiveness. Go to God and get right with Him, and then go to that person and make things right with him or her. And then go to church and (Matt. 18:15-20) worship God 'in Spirit and in truth.' We are forgiving forgiveness. Pastor Hartwig.
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Sunday mornings @ 10:45am
1130 Castle Creek Road, Castle Creek, NY, 13744
1130 Castle Creek Road, Castle Creek, NY, 13744