Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Corinthians 13:11, NIV)
Early this month, I played in a golf tournament and was partnered with some brothers in Christ. I have known these men through ministry and golf for more than 20 years. We played in a Scotch format on the last day of this tournament with four twosomes all together and had so much fun! This was not a “Christian tournament,” but we were all brothers in Christ, which made the day extra special. We wanted to play well, but most important was to enjoy each other’s company. After the round we had the opportunity to have dinner with our wives and extend the fellowship. What a blessed day it was, especially with what I am going to share next.
That evening, I had opportunity to spend some powerful moments with two of the golfing brothers I had played with that day. More than two decades ago, the three of us experienced a very painful time over an unhappy situation in ministry. I felt that I needed to share with them that my heart had ached all these years when I was around them. We all endured difficulty in these situations. I was sorry for all that had happened.
But for all that trouble, when we looked back now, we agreed that we could say in thanksgiving, “Look at what God has done!”
That evening reminded me of the passage in 2 Corinthians 13:11, where Paul asked of the Corinthians to strive for full restoration. My friends and I were able to do this when we rejoiced together at what God had done in our lives. We have all been used by God; we just needed to put our personal agendas aside.
The encouragement we had given one another on the golf course was one thing. But far beyond this, we were now able to encourage one another in the ways God is using us in his kingdom. We were of one mind, and we ended the evening hugging each other. God is good!
All of us have experienced brokenness in certain relationships, where we think we cannot live or work with someone ever again. Even now, you may recognize the need for restoration with a friend or family member, neighbor or work associate. And you may be deeply anguished over how such restoration can possibly happen. I can give you no better encouragement than this: “With God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
If you are looking for a fresh start in a present relationship, pray and ask for the Lord’s help. I know God will give you his peace and you will feel his love, if you strive for full restoration.
—
Dereck Wong
August 17, 2015
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The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.