“Pick Your Battles”

Monday, August 01, 2016

As a Christian, if someone thinks I have done them wrong, and they tell me I own them an apology, and I tell them I have nothing to be sorry for – at first, I thought I had done wrong, but others said I didn't do wrong; this person refuses to put it in the past and let it go without an apology.  I am a young Christian and now feel I did nothing wrong, and I refuse to apologize.  Am I wrong in doing this?

Sincerely,
Where’s The Wrong?

Dear Where’s The Wrong,

With all do respect, your refusal to offer any type of apology is probably showing your youth.  Paul tells us to “as much as it depends on us” seek peace (Rom 12:18).  Jesus says that we should turn the other cheek and go the extra mile (Matt 5:39-41).  Whether you actually did something wrong is irrelevant; you can still apologize for having hurt the person’s feelings.  Being the bigger person isn’t easy, but it is part of the lifestyle Christ has called us to.  Jesus tells us to love even our enemies (Lk 6:35).  Who knows… maybe your kindness and olive branch of peace will soften the heart of the other person (Rom 12:20).

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