Reconciled

Recently the Lord has been speaking to me and highlighting the subject of reconciliation.  A relatively large amount of Christians I know do not approach God from the standpoint of already being reconciled, but still separated from a loving Father, unsure of His will towards them to do good.  The definition of reconcile (dictionary.com), paraphrased by yours truly, simply means to bring back into good relationship (definitions 2-5 from the referenced website are good reads).  It's the bridging of the gap between two parties or two people that were once separated by something.  Many people approach God as if they still need to be brought back into right standing with Him. Statements of unworthiness and songs with lyrics that illustrate this press, having to put forth some kind of arduous effort to be heard or seen of Him prove that there is some kind of deception lingering in the minds of many.  The Amplified Bible version of 2 Corinthians 5:19 says it so well: "It was God [personally present] in Christ reconciling and restoring the world to favor with Himself, not counting up and holding against [men] their trespasses [but cancelling them], and committing to us the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor.)"  He's not an angry God who sits up in heaven counting our sins of the past, present and future.  He is a loving Father awaiting our attention so that we can hang out (aka fellowship).
My stance towards God in my relating to Him and my prayer life change when I realize in my heart that I'm already reconciled by His efforts and not my earning it.  It allows me to come boldly to the throne of grace (Heb 4:16) as opposed to sheepishly saying, "Lord, if it be Your will..."

So, to briefly sum up til next time: Ask Holy Spirit if you're approaching God from the proper standpoint.  Do I already view myself as being reconciled?  Do I interact with God as if He's an estranged Father?  Let Holy Spirit reveal truth to you and allow Him to minister to your heart if there's any corrections or adjustments that need to be made in your heart so that you can relate to God better.

I realize there are many factors in relating well to God.  This is just one topic He started to speak to me about.  It changed how I came to God.  I was no longer bringing feelings of shame or guilt, but realizing I'm already in right relationship with the Father because of what Jesus did for me.  Without touching the subject of repentance, our overall view of God affects how we approach Him.  Let this new aspect of being reconciled permeate you heart so He can take you deeper into hope and His vast love for you.