Are you a mother who doesn’t speak to her daughter? A husband who barely talks to his wife? A best friend who never answers the other’s calls? Courtrooms are full of litigation between families, coworkers and friends. You probably haven’t escaped the pain of a broken relationship. This pain is universal, dating back to the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve, through sin, broke fellowship with God. We’ve been in need of reconciliation ever since.

We’re all accountable for how we interact with others. If you refuse to take responsibility for your actions, you’re asking for trouble. While you’re never responsible for another person’s heart, you have a God-given duty to evaluate your own, deal with unresolved anger, and humbly ask forgiveness.

Don’t allow hurt feelings to alienate you from loved ones. Be aware, however, that reconciliation and restoration are not the same. Not every relationship, especially an abusive one, should be restored. In every instance, allow your heart to reflect God’s heart. Ask Him to give you wisdom and patience as you seek peace with others.