Be Reconciled to God: A Path to Spiritual Renewal

Restoring Peace, Fellowship, and Purpose Through Reconciliation

To “be reconciled to God” is to restore a broken relationship with our Creator, a relationship fractured by sin. It describes a profound journey. This journey is life-changing and begins with the acceptance of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for humanity. The process of reconciliation involves confessing sins, expressing genuine remorse, and seeking forgiveness through faith. Ultimately, it leads to a renewed relationship with God—a relationship marked by peace, fellowship, and spiritual purpose.

The Need for Reconciliation

The Bible teaches that humanity’s relationship with God is broken due to sin. Sin, at its core, is a deviation from God’s perfect and righteous standards. It is not merely an act of wrongdoing, but a condition of the heart—one that alienates us from God. Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This separation is not just physical but spiritual, creating a chasm between humanity and the divine.

The consequences of sin are profound. It leads to spiritual death, as outlined in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death.” This death is not merely the cessation of life but eternal separation from the loving presence of God. The broken relationship with God leaves individuals in a state of unrest and guilt. They feel disconnected and yearn for a sense of peace and purpose.

God’s Initiative

Despite humanity’s rebellion, God’s love and mercy provide a way to bridge the gap caused by sin. The initiative for reconciliation begins with God, not with humans. This profound truth is encapsulated in John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. Whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

God’s plan for reconciliation is fulfilled through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ death on the cross serves as the ultimate atonement for humanity’s sins. Through his sacrifice, he bore the punishment that rightfully belonged to us, paying the debt we could never repay. 2 Corinthians 5:19 beautifully expresses this divine act. It states, “God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them.”

This initiative demonstrates God’s infinite love and grace. It is not something humanity earns or deserves; it is a free gift extended to all. However, like any gift, it must be received with open hands and hearts.

Human Response

While God initiates the process of reconciliation, humans must actively respond to his invitation. Reconciliation is a two-way relationship that requires faith, repentance, and surrender.

Faith

Faith is the foundation of reconciliation. It involves believing in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and trusting in his sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Hebrews 11:6 asserts, “And without faith it is impossible to please God.” To please God, anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists. They must also believe that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Faith is not merely intellectual assent but a heartfelt trust in God’s promises and a commitment to follow Christ.

Repentance

Repentance is a vital step in the reconciliation process. It involves acknowledging one’s sins, expressing genuine remorse, and turning away from sinful behaviors. Acts 3:19 encourages believers to “repent, then. Turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out. Then, times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” True repentance is not just about feeling sorry for sins. It is about making a conscious decision to change one’s direction. It also involves aligning with God’s will.

Surrender

Surrender is the act of yielding one’s life to God’s guidance and living in obedience to his commands. It requires letting go of selfish desires and trusting God to lead. Romans 12:1 urges believers to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice.” This offering should be holy and pleasing to God. This is your true and proper worship. Surrender is a daily commitment to live in harmony with God’s purposes and to cultivate a relationship with him.

The Outcome of Reconciliation

Reconciliation with God results in profound and life-changing outcomes. It restores the broken relationship, allowing individuals to experience his peace, forgiveness, and love. Romans 5:1 declares, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God. This peace is through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

This restored relationship brings a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Believers no longer live for themselves but for God, seeking to fulfill his plans in their lives. 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Moreover, reconciliation allows believers to live in fellowship with God, experiencing his constant presence and guidance. Through this fellowship, they grow in spiritual maturity. They bear the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Reconciliation also extends beyond the individual. It inspires believers to become ambassadors for Christ, spreading the message of reconciliation to others. 2 Corinthians 5:20 reminds us, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

Reflection

Reconciliation with God is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of faith, repentance, and surrender. It is a path to spiritual renewal that transforms hearts and lives, bringing peace, purpose, and fellowship with the Creator. As you reflect on this calling, consider these questions. Are there areas in your life where you need to seek reconciliation with God? How can you surrender more fully to his will?

In choosing to be reconciled to God, you choose life—life abundant and eternal. The invitation is open, the way is made, and the promise is sure. Will you accept it?

May your journey be blessed with wisdom and grace.   

Blessings, 

Minister A. Francine Green 

All Scripture references are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE) unless otherwise noted.