How Can We Deepen Our Intimacy with Christ?

What matters most when we show up to worship?
In “Relationships Matter to God,” we’re reminded that unresolved conflict—especially in our closest relationships—matters deeply to God. In fact, Jesus said we should press pause on worship if we know someone has something against us. Why? Because our hearts, our humility, and our willingness to seek reconciliation are acts of worship too. One woman shares how God softened her heart during years of marriage struggles, leading her from resentment to grace—and from pride to peace.

Key Takeaways:

• God prioritizes reconciliation over religious ritual

• We can’t truly worship when bitterness is brewing

• Conflict often becomes destructive when left unprocessed

• Christ calls us to deal with our emotions before they harden into contempt

• Forgiveness is a gift we give to others and ourselves

📖 “First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” – Matthew 5:24, NIV

💬 Join the Conversation:
When has God led you to reconcile before continuing with worship? How did that change your heart—or your relationship? Share your story using #GraceBeforeTheGift and tag @LifeAudioNetwork.

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Full Transcript Below:

23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift (Matthew 5:23-24, NIV).

As someone navigating through some challenging and confusing relationships, this passage brings me comfort. While it doesn’t guarantee reconciliation, or a life filled with deep, safe, and fulfilling connections—even when I actively pursue such things—it does assure me that my relationships matter to God. In fact, they matter more to Him than my Sunday morning worship and my most generous and sacrificial tithe. 

This was a message He often conveyed to me, back when I was a relatively new and extremely immature wife and Christ-follower who’d spent years learning to hold grudges rather than choosing to forgive. Back then, it seemed like my husband and I were always fighting about some