(The next verses in this series, vs. 21-22, deal with consequences of certain charges, which I dealt with in my blog of June 28, 2015. Now we continue.)
Matthew 5:23-26
Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there you remember that your brother has aught against you; leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go to be reconciled to your brother, then come back and offer your gift. --
This means that if you have somehow offended your brother, or your brother has blamed you for something even if you don't think it's your fault, you need to first do whatever you need to do to make things right with your brother as much as you are able, before you come before God.
This is the application of King David's understanding in Psalm 51:16-17: "For You do not desire sacrifice, or I would give it: You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise."
Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you re still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the Truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. --
We are never to run away from our debts. When we owe a creditor more than we think we can pay them, we are to contact them before they begin proceedings against us, to negotiate terms for repayment, even if it is only a fraction of the amount they are demanding. Good faith and faithfulness in doing what we have agreed to do go a long way in our financial dealings.
If you find that you have debts that are beyond your ability to pay, there are good Christian financial advisers who can guide you back into financial freedom. Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University has helped many people, couples and families out of financial drowning into prosperity.
It is said that a person's true priorities can be seen by looking at their calendar and their checkbook. Jesus talked about money more than any other subject.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
