Apostolic Horizon International

More than Forgiveness

I was made aware some years ago that my mannerisms, the way I speak or approach others can be intimidating and/or discourteous. Though this is not my conscious intent it does not change the fact that I can produce in others a defensive or retaliatory response, especially from those who do not know me well. This means that I may find myself in a place of enmity from which I need to repent and rectify.

If the result of my ‘inadvertent’ aggression produces a need to apologise and repent then it is a pattern of sin that needs to be overcome. I know that I have forgiveness through Christ (1 John 1:7-9) but I also realised that it is better to not cause offense than rest in forgiveness. So, my prayer does not end with “I am a sinner Lord, please forgive me”, but moves on to a plea for deliverance from the power of sin. A prayer that says, “Holy Spirit, deliver me through the power of the cross from this obnoxious flesh, that I may not cause offense through my sin-nature. Let my human interactions be to the praise of your glory”. If I cause offense let it be the offense of the cross and not the offense of my sinful self.

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By John Yates
Introduction
An article headed Joe Dakuitoga well-versed in ways of miracles, underscored by the citation, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Phil 4:13) recently appeared in our national newspaper.
Joe is the national coach of the Fiji rugby team, he is quoted, “”We believe God is going to give us the [...]