Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #19 — Unwavering Peace

Picture: Counsel #19 — Unwavering Peace CR 377.1

What happens when you’ve spent a significant amount of time in prayer asking God to guide your words and actions toward rebuilding a friendship, but when you finally have that conversation, the person has no interest in rebuilding a friendship or relationship? Few things sting more than offering a heartfelt, genuine apology, only to have it met with a harsh refusal. CR 377.2

This situation is a painful reminder that while you can control your own actions, you have zero control over another person’s response. This is where the heart of biblical humility is truly tested. The Bible teaches that you are responsible for your part, which is confessing the sin, repenting, trying to make amends, and showing a genuine change of heart. Beyond all of that, all you can do is release the outcome to God. Sometimes, pride will cause you to feel angry about their reaction, but God desires for you to continue to pray for them, refusing to let their unforgiveness harden your heart. Even if reconciliation never comes, you can walk in peace knowing you released the offense, and ultimately, obeyed God.^[398] CR 377.3

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 NIV CR 377.4

“He who is at peace with God and his fellow-men can not be made miserable.” Ellen White in With God at Dawn , p. 261 CR 377.5

Reflect: Can you still walk in peace even if they never forgive you? CR 377.6