Acts chapter 3 verses 19-20 (NIV)
Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus.
For many people in these modern times the idea of saying sorry and repenting, that is to stop doing what we know to be wrong and sinful and turning away from these things, is very difficult. Some people find it hard to give a sincere apology, and many “official” apologies are crouched in terms like, “I’m sorry if my behaviour made you feel upset”, rather than saying, “I’m really sorry I upset you.” Sincere repentence like this opens the door for God to refresh us with His presence. But, just as important, if we are the one who has been hurt, we need to accept a sincere apology when it is offered, otherwise we too are in the wrong, and God can’t move in us either. We should be able to give thanks that things are put right. That way both parties can know God’s hand on them. That’s what God wants after all.
Dear Lord,
I’m grateful that You pour out Your refreshing presence on us when we come to You in sincere repentence. Help me to extend Your grace to any who come to me to apologise for any past wrongs. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.