The Spirit Brings Reconciliation

After King Saul was killed in battle, many pledged their loyalty to David as their new king. However, Saul was from the tribe of Benjamin and others from his tribe would have resisted David’s kingship since he had likely been seen as the enemy of their man Saul for some time. Flattering words would not have been enough to mend the rift between David and warriors from Benjamin.

Other Benjaminites and some men from Judah also came to David in his stronghold. David went out to meet them and said to them, ‘If you have come to me in peace to help me, I am ready for you to join me. But if you have come to betray me to my enemies when my hands are free from violence, may the God of our ancestors see it and judge you.’ Then the Spirit came on Amasai, chief of the Thirty, and he said: ‘We are yours, David! We are with you, son of Jesse! Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you.’ So David received them and made them leaders of his raiding bands. (1 Chronicles 12:16-18)

The Spirit of God brought such reconciliation through Amasai’s words that he and his men were not only allowed to join David - they were entrusted with positions of leadership. Do you feel stuck trying to bring reconciliation between you and a friend or family member, or between others who are unreconciled? You would love there to be trust insead of mere toleratation, but it seems that your best efforts continue to fall on deaf ears.

We see throughout the Bible that the most common result of the Holy Spirt’s impact on someone is that their words carry power. Instead of trying to bring reconciliation with your own words, take some time to pray and ask God to give you Holy Spirit empowered words that will bring reconciliation. Pray for clarity and understanding as well as humility and the courage to ask for forgiveness if you were in the wrong. You won’t need to be loud or aggressive because even the quietest words empowered by the Spirit can have tremendous impact. And keep asking God for words that will not only repair was was broken, but will establish the foundation for increased trust over time.