nitially I felt certain I had misunderstood my friend. Her blatant comments had cut deep. Though I lingered at the party, hoping to clear the air between us, it didn’t happen. The more I thought about it while driving home, the angrier I became. 

Several prayer-filled days passed, and the knot in my stomach eased. I decided to reach out and attempt to repair the breach. After all, Scripture tells us “Blessed are the peacemakers.” (Matthew 5:9) I longed to bring peace and resolution before our rift grew.

Taking the first steps to resolve our conflict, I made what I hoped would be a conciliatory telephone call. Unfortunately, the issue between us was not resolved. In fact, nothing changed, and I felt devastated.

God’s Word says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18) This passage clearly shows us that, in spite of our best efforts, peace may not be possible with everyone at all times. Disappointed and further upset after my failed attempt, I made another phone call.

Me: Hello, Poison Control? I’ve unintentionally ingested a mega-dose of hurt. I’m pretty sure there was some anger and offense mixed in.

Poison Control: Do you know exactly how much was consumed, ma’am?

Me: Oh, I think it was the whole thing. The entire black bottle is empty. Please hurry, I’m in pain!

Poison Control: Ma’am, you’ll need to remain calm. Being agitated causes the poison to flow through to your heart more quickly. Ma’am, you’ll also need to drink Syrup of Forgiveness. This needs to be ingested immediately. Do you have some of this in your house?

Me: I’m looking. Hold on…are you sure?

Poison Control: Yes, the antidote is Syrup of Forgiveness. It’s really thick and sometimes can be difficult to swallow, but if you drink it all at once, you’ll be fine.

Me: I’ve found it! That’s odd; I don’t remember having this in the house.

Poison Control: Oh, it’s usually there, Ma’am. You just have to search real hard to find it.

Misunderstandings between friends happen; anger and hurt are usually the results. Yet we’re all human; imperfect. Each of us possesses faults and weaknesses, and we are frequently in need of forgiveness ourselves. In fact, we often inflict unintentional injury upon those we love without even realizing it. Yet when we willingly choose to forgive, we can experience peace instead of turmoil, regardless of the outcome. Forgiveness is the only antidote to the bitter poison of every misunderstanding, hurt and offense.

Matthew 6:14 - “For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”