Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Proverbs 28:13

What do those words mean to you?

An apology?

Heartfelt from you to the offended?

Or a necessary evil?

Something to get your loved one off your back?

Apologies mean the world.

They write the wrongs.

Cover the faults.

Restore relationships.

Why is it so hard sometimes to apologize?

Pride?

What is true Christ-like apology?

Acknowledging your part with no strings attached.

Simply saying you are sorry for what you have done.

End of story.

No excuses.

Is that what you do?

Or do you apologize on the wings of accusing the other person along the way?

True apology only acknowledges your part.

You and you alone.

Fess up and relent.

Accept responsibility for what you and you alone have done.

End of story.

When you offer a sincere apology, void of blame and accusation, all will be well.

Relationships will be smoothed and offenses forgiven.

But only if you take responsibility for your own actions.

Don’t apologize by blaming the other person.

Simply say you’re sorry for what you did.

Honestly and sincere.

Look at the other person and say those words.

Only then will God redeem your situation.

Forgiveness is quick and sweet.

Humble yourself and ask.

It’s the only way.

Photos by Brett Jordan & Sandra Grünewald on Unsplash