“… With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love …” —Ephesians 4:2
Apologizing doesn’t come easily to most of us. The Bible, however, offers us instances of people who apologized when they acted wrongly, and we can learn from their example.
On one occasion, for instance, the apostle Paul was arrested and taken before an assembly of religious leaders. He spoke very bluntly to the high priest, not realizing who he was, and was rebuked for speaking disrespectfully to such an important official. Paul immediately apologized for his action, enabling him to continue with his defense.
Have you ever asked yourself why it’s so hard to apologize? One reason is pride: we hate to admit we were wrong. But the Bible says that pride is sin: “pride and arrogance ... I hate” (Proverbs 8:13).
So if apologizing is difficult for you, ask God to help you overcome your pride—or whatever else is holding you back. Seek out one person you may have hurt and say very simply, “I’m sorry.” Next time, apologizing will be even easier.
Asking for forgiveness doesn’t come naturally, Lord. Please grant us the humility and gentleness necessary to make amends when we have wronged another person. Help us set aside our pride and pursue peace.
BGM
