I was pondering how the things in our life, that start out as insignificant, can quite suddenly blossom into an entirely different story. It may simply be something small that is allowed to grow without careful monitoring because we did not perceive it as a potential issue. One day it is of little consequence, while the next day it is encroaching in ways that we never did see coming.
Here is what I am sure we would all agree upon.
It would have been much easier to take care of it while it was small compared to what will now be required. Now it will take more effort, requiring much more concentrated prayer and discernment. The time will likely be longer as well, as it is not a cut and dry situation. There are appendages that have grown off of that initial root that must be eliminated. In other words, it will require damage control.
However, we can accomplish all that needs to be done when we are led by the Holy Spirit, taking whatever necessary action is needed, and doing it immediately. There is another way of saying it that I like. Once you know, then you can’t deny that you know! Now you must do what is right.
At the end of the day there may be some things that are lost as a result of our neglect. It may take some time for forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust to be established once again. It may mean that we will have to live with the consequences for a bit longer than we would like, but in the end we know that God is good. His faithfulness will be what keeps us encouraged, and moving forward, even if some people are not able to walk with us any longer.
It may be that you and I have had personal experience with allowing a situation to grow that was not healthy, or we may have been on the other side. Perhaps we were the ones that pointed out the danger, only to be told that we didn’t understand, or that our help was not needed. Either way, a relationship has been stressed to the point of fracturing, and now we must do what we can do to repair it.
Hebrews 12:14-16 Continually pursue peace with everyone, and the sanctification without which no one will (ever) see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled;