These Three Words (3) - Rev. Andra D. Sparks

"These Three Words"...7/26/20 PART 3 PART 2 - https://youtu.be/KfIhHZ-ggoM "These Three Words"...7/26/20 Sermon Series: “REAL LOVE” A Relationship Rehab Series Speaker: Pastor Sparks Text: 1 Samuel 25 -There are times in relationships where we simply just don’t get it right -Sometimes it’s not the act, but the discussion after the act that hurts the most. We gotta know HOW to talk to each other! -While the words “I love you” are uber important, “I am sorry” are just as important -There’s no way you can join two lives together without stepping on each other’s toes at times -In this scripture, Nabal—and a ton of people—were spared because Nabal’s wife, Abigail, stepped in and apologized to David on Nabal’s behalf, thus saving the lives of her entire household -Do you know how to apologize? WHY APOLOGIZE? * Because it’s a way of recognizing & acknowledging our wrongs, and by doing so we clear the air with others to help restore relationship -Understand though, that apologies don’t automatically equate to forgiveness. Do your part and let the other person come around when they’re ready ELEMENTS OF A HEALTHY APOLOGY * Address everyone involved * This includes the innocent bystanders that heard/saw/experienced the junk you did * Avoid “if”, “but”, & “maybe” * When we use these terms, we lessen what we’ve done and put the responsibility on the other person * Admit specifically what you’ve done * Acknowledge the hurt * Empathy goes a long way; it’s hard to acknowledge hurting someone when you don’t put yourself in their shoes * Accept the consequences * The person may not forgive you...but that’s their right. Do your part and give them space to process it as they see fit * Alter your behavior * If your apology isn’t combined with changed behavior, it’s a hollow, ineffective, insincere apology * Ask for forgiveness & allow time * “I’m sorry” acknowledges behavior; “will you forgive me?” requests righting the relationship. * Time is a healer 3x5 Apology Rules * Express regret * Accept Responsibility * Make restitution * Genuine repentance * Request forgiveness Sermon Notes courtesy of Deacon Anthony Sparks