The Power of a Relationship Based on Repentance
(Acts 3.1-20)

"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord..." (Acts 3:19)

Great, powerful, healthy relationships are based upon mutual humility. Nothing says 'humility' like repentance. Humility works with God...it works with your spouse, it works with friendships.

I heard some 'expert' on cable news this week providing 'insight' into some politician's extra-marital affair. The 'expert' said, "Anytime there are marital problems - it takes two."

She said this with a slight 'knowing' smile and an air of great insight.

That's a rather typical notion of many folks. I've even heard it said among our congregation...

If we are talking about reconciliation, then it does indeed 'take two.' If we are talking about wrecking a relationship, then it only takes one.

The one who is offending, and their supporters/sympathizers, want to provide some excuse for behavior by placing some of the blame on the victim. That makes me angry.

Cowards. A man who has an affair and then tries to place some of the blame on his wife is a louse and a coward. There is NO excuse for betraying the covenant and fidelity sacredly placed in a marriage.

That is not to say that there cannot be forgiveness, but forgiveness is predicated upon repentance and repentance is predicated upon humility. If an offending husband is humble, then there is a possibility of forgiveness and perhaps a rebuilding of trust and then a relationship.

That's how it is with us and God. It's obvious from scripture that God is only impressed with a contrite heart. "Humble yourself therefore in the sight of God and in due time He will exalt you..."

The power that comes from a healthy relationship lifts one up. It is true of our marriage, it is true of our friendships, and it is true with God. It's no accident that scripture says of our marriages that if we don't want our relationship with God to be hindered, we must have an open, honest, and humble relationship with our mate.

There is power in relationships based upon repentance and humility.

(Incidentally, the same thing also applies if it is the wife who has betrayed the marriage.)