Page 103 - Mystic Pathways through the Bible

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target, you always aim a little higher so that the arrow hits the target. Similarly, when you are aiming at developing spiritual qualities always aim higher. Always have a surplus of virtue.
Reconcile Your Differences with Others
To emphasize the glory of maintaining harmony, Lord Jesus said:
So if you are about to place your gift on the altar, and remember that someone is angry with you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. Make peace with that person, then come back and offer your gift to God. (CEV Matthew 5:23-24)
If, at a time of ritual worship, you remember someone with whom you have argued and had disagreements, “forget” about God and run to that person and reconcile your differences. Only then should you return to worship God. If you pray to God while holding ill will towards the people around you, God will not be pleased. God is the Indweller in all. If you hold ill will towards others, you hold ill will towards God. You must settle matters with your neighbors and relatives before coming to worship God, for if you hold a grudge against them your worship will lose its ef cacy.
If, at the back of your mind, bitterness is simmering, your turning to God is super cial.