Genesis 33, 35 | The Effects of a Clear Conscience

How important is it to clear your conscience with others? And what will be the results? Jacob had cheated his brother and in Genesis 33 he approaches his brother Esau to clear his conscience for what he had done in the past. The last time he had been with Esau, Esau wanted to kill him. Jacob expected that this anger had not subsided.

But he was wrong, as we often are.

Then Esau ran to meet him and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept." (Genesis 33:4)

HOW OTHERS RESPOND

This is not always the response we receive when we go back to clear our conscience, but it is OFTEN the case. I've had to go to others hundreds of times (often my own family) to seek forgiveness for what I've done or how I've done something. Almost always that has been met with forgiveness and understanding.

The enemy would love to get us to delay the clearing of our conscience, telling us that the results will be terrible and hard. Here is Jacob as exhibit A. No doubt he had feared this encounter for years and yet it was met with reconciliation and love. In a matter of minutes, the issues were resolved. No doubt a deep burden he'd carried for years was lifted.

Once again, following God and doing what He asks yields precious fruit. It's always the right time to obey God!

Is there a conversation you’ve been putting off? Perhaps for years? Today is the time to lift the load off your soul. Humbly go and makes things right with those who have something against you. Regardless of their response, you will find fresh freedom.

Father, thank You for providing a way for us to be right with you and right with others. Give us the courage today (and every day) to do what we need to do and illustrate our desire for rightness in every relationship.