2 Samuel 14:14 - Returning to God

Like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be recovered, so we must die. But that is not what God desires; rather, he devises ways so that a banished person does not remain banished from him.

One of David's son killed his brother for an atrocious act. This son flees from David and is essentially banished. After mourning the son who was dead, one of David's men shows him it is ok for his son to return. God desires reconciliation. He knows of our sins, but he wants us to return to him and will create a path for us. The great path was the death of his son so that our sins could be forgiven, but he also devises a personal path for each of us to return to him if we will follow it.

Lord, thank you for making a way for us to return to you. Please help the lost to open their eyes and see your plan for them. Amen.

Genesis 33:4 - Reconciliation

But Esau ran to meet Jacob and embrace him; he threw his arms around his neck and kissed him, And they wept.

Jacob had deceived Esau and his father. He was right to be worried about his reunion with Esau. Jacob humbly prayed to God, even wrestled with him all night. He knew he had been wrong and felt remorse. Jacob heaped gifts upon Esau before he even saw him. I am sure the reunion would not have gone as well had Jacob not consulted the Lord and humbly offered gifts to Esau. When we have broken relationships, prayer and humility are our best tools for reconciliation. And gifts don't hurt either.

Lord, please help me to heal my broken relationships. Help me to be humble and giving. Amen.