Everyone Needs a Clean Slate

I’ve hurt a lot of people in my life. I’m sure more than I even realize.

When you grow in Christ, one of the most important things you have to learn is to take an inventory of your past. You try to recall every time you wronged someone, every time you lied, cheated, stole, hurt (emotionally or physically), or gossiped about someone. And then, you ask forgiveness.

I know what a lot of you might be thinking, especially if you are familiar with Celebrate Recovery or Alcoholics Anonymous, you’re probably thinking, “He’s talking about making amends. That’s not from the Bible, that’s from the 12 steps of AA!”

Yes, the way I phrased it, that is basically Step 8.

But, trust me, the Bible is very clear that this is how things are supposed to go.

“Happy are the merciful.” (Matthew 5:6)

“Happy are the peacemakers.” (Matthew 5:9)

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:17-18)