We have all heard the saying, “Don’t get the cart before the horse”.

Monday, October 12th, 2009

They are both very important especially if you want to carry more than yourself. 
2 Cor 5:17-19
18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation , 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.  NKJV
The ministry of reconciliation begins with forgiveness, which opens the door for the word of reconciliation……Forgiveness is not the same as reconciliation. Forgiveness focuses on the offense, whereas reconciliation focuses on the relationship. Forgiveness doesn’t even require a relationship. However, reconciliation requires a relationship in which two people, in agreement, are walking together toward the same goal. Forgiveness can take place with only one person. Reconciliation requires at least two persons.  Forgiveness is directed one-way. Reconciliation is reciprocal . . . two-ways. Forgiveness is a decision to release the offender. Reconciliation is the effort to rejoin the offender. Forgiveness involves a change in thinking about the offender. Reconciliation involves a change in behavior by the offender. Forgiveness is a free gift to the one who has broken trust. Reconciliation is a restored relationship based on restored trust. Let me encourage you to think about those who you need to forgive and then forgive them….then hook up the cart of reconciliation and carry on.
Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?  NKJV