UNHINDERED WORSHIP
How Forgiveness Opens the Way to True Worship
“If you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar and remember someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there. First go and be reconciled, then return and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23–24 (NLT)
I didn’t want to do it, but I knew it was time. Time to forgive a friend for a wrong she had done. When I finally mustered the courage to call her and let her know I had forgiven her for the pain she caused, something unexpected happened. The person who experienced the most freedom from that conversation wasn’t her—it was me.
Jesus understood the importance of restoring broken relationships. He taught that our worship can be hindered when we harbor a grievance against someone in our hearts. To worship him with sincerity and purity, he calls us to resolve our grievances as quickly as possible.
Are you holding on to unforgiveness? Restoring broken relationships matters deeply to your heavenly Father. Whether someone needs to forgive you for a wrong you’ve done, or you need to forgive someone who has hurt you, Jesus invites you to leave your sacrifice at the altar and go make things right—because reconciliation opens the door to the freedom to worship unhindered, not just for them, but for you as well.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me release any unforgiveness and seek reconciliation where You lead. Free my heart so I can worship You unhindered. Amen.