August 19

The Way You Carry It

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18).

Scripture: Romans 12:9-21

Song: “Change My Heart, Oh God”

Life isn’t just a load of problems to be solved, issues to see through, and hardships to get over. Life is also the gift of peace, the kind Jesus promised us, the special kind that surpasses all our understanding. On occasion that peace requires “I’m sorry.”

Apologies are a sign of strength not weakness. And peace is the gift that comes from an apology. So . . . swallow the pride, gulp real hard, and go forward. It means having to be a whole lot of vulnerable and a little bit of brave. When we are brave enough to apologize—or just to let it go and choose to live in peace—we break through a serious spiritual barrier. We can enjoy the gift of life again.

We’ll always face relational challenges and upsets because human beings come to one another with uniquely differing goals, desires, wounds, and intentions. This creates a load or burden for each of us to carry. But here’s the key: It’s not the load itself that breaks us down; it’s the way we carry it.

Lighten the load today and stop spinning your wheels and wasting your days. Choose to diligently work through your conflicts with others. Forgive offenses. Resolve disputes. An apology is a good way to have the last word.

Heavenly Father, teach me how to apologize when I’ve been the agent of hurt, even unintentionally. Show me how to live in peace with everyone. I fail at this often, but I thank You and praise You for the example of Your Son. In His name, amen.