Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12: 1-3 NIV
Comment
In the early years of our marriage, my husband often had the last word. And that word was – ‘I’m sorry.’ He had the grace to reach into the tangled mess of a heated argument, pick out the thread of his own fault, and apologise for it. There’s nothing that defuses a fight so quickly as a genuine heartfelt apology by one of the combatants! He was willing to humble himself, which in turn was very humbling to me.
In the midst of an argument, why not let the Spirit of Jesus have the last word? Fix your eyes on him and let him humble you. Kneel at his feet and say ‘sorry’ to him and to each other. After all, he will have the final last word some day.
Prayer (as a couple)
Holy Spirit, thank you for this reminder that you are in our midst. Help us to fix our eyes on Jesus and remember what price he has paid for us. We want to apologise to each other wholeheartedly for _______________.
Prayer (for others)
Lord Jesus, we pray for _________ that they would be willing to let you have the final word in their conflicts.
Quote
‘I’m practising the discipline of not having to have the last word.’ Dallas Willard
