Jesus’ approach to peacemaking is to pursue reconciliation. There are three steps in that process that are important for us to understand and practice. The first step is confession. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus used a word picture to get this point across when he asked, “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” (Mt. 7:3) We have the remarkable ability to see others’ faults but remain blind to our own. Any attempt at relational repair must begin with recognizing this tragic self-deception.  We need to consider the plank in our own eye before ever dealing with the speck in someone else’s eye. To be a peacemaker, you need to deal honestly with your contribution to the conflict. Here are some steps that can help with that. 1.     Ask God to help you see your own sin clearly. King David offers this great prayer.  “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Ps. 139:23-24)  Reflect on these questions and write down the things God brings to mind: Have I used reckless, hurting words?Have I lied or deceived?Have I sought to control or manipulate?Have I gossiped or slandered?Have I sought revenge or looked for ways to hurt?Have I responded in sinful ways to the sins against me? 2.     Have a spiritually mature friend help you press into your confession list. A wise, discerning, and courageous brother or sister can bring a less biased perspective and allow you to be more thorough in your confession.  3.     Confess each sin on your list to God.  One by one, say, “Father, please forgive me for __________.” Be specific and thorough.  Consider having your friend witness your confession to God.  This allows for a sense of accountability in the future.  James 5:16 says: “…confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”  This teaching is followed by a Q&A conversation with Dave on the topic of confession.  Text: Matthew 7:3-5; Psalm 139:23-24Originally recorded on September 1, 2013, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN.

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