APOLOGY IN A RELATIONSHIP

Apology is a very important ingredient for a long and healthy relationship. One of the few words, that are very difficult to human beings is, to apologise sincerely, and without being asked for. Ego, pride and arrogance, compels the person to justify their mistakes, and defend themselves.

Many are quick to apologise, but there is no real intent to apologise. Apology, when it doesn’t mean anything more than, a mere recitation of words, is worth nothing. Saul demonstrates this very well, when dealing with young David – 1 Samuel chapters 18 to 26. He apologises to David many times. Yet, Saul continues his pursuit, to kill David, out of jealousy and insecurity. No wonder, Saul was rejected as the king.

The same David, apologises sincerely and earnestly, without any justification and excuses, when questioned by the prophet Nathan, in regards to David’s sin with Bathsebah. Psalm 51 gives us a penetrating insight into the heart of David. This is true apology. No wonder David is called, “A man after God’s own heart.”

Willing to consider the possibility that we could be wrong, is the first step towards an honest look at the issue at hand. No one ever loses anything, if we apologies unconditionally, for any wrong done. We would only gain, by apologising for our mistakes. We will not only gain the confidence of the person, but also, greatly contribute, to restore the broken relationship, and be reconciled.

How do we approach the apology part when things go wrong? Do we merely parrot the words? Do we mean it, with all our heart? Are we willing to climb down, and apologise, even before we are asked for it? May the LORD help us.