Devotions: Seeking Love

He who conceals a transgression seeks love,
But he who repeats a matter separates intimate friends.

Proverbs 17:9 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

The New Living Translates this verse as “Love prospers when a fault is forgiven but dwelling on it separates close friends.” It is so true. When we forgive, when we let go of an offense, it restores our relationship with that person. We are allowing love to guide us. But when we dwell on what happened, and talk about it with others, it drives a wedge between two people that is difficult, if not impossible, to remove. We are putting ourselves first, instead of loving the other person. I know because I’ve been there. Instead of dealing with an issue, I dwelt on it. I rolled it over in my mind, stewing on how unjustly I was treated. Now, years later, I have finally reconciled with that person (it took several years for her to accept she had done something wrong), but I don’t know if we will ever be close again. I have to fight the habit of rolling over what has been said daily. I have to retrain my brain to not go there when I am met with a trigger. If we are to maintain love, to have healthy relationships, we need to forgive and let go. Just “Let it go!”  Easier said than done I know, but it is essential, not only for external relationships, but also for our relationship with God and our own health. In order to keep those little things from building up, we have to deal with them as they come and be done with it. Ask God to help you forgive. Ask Him to heal your heart and renew your mind. Ask Him to restore your relationships.

To view a video of this devo, visit my facebook page at www.facebook.com/evelynbray15

Like my page or subscribe to my blog to receive these devotions daily!