We join you in lifting this burden to the Lord, for He alone is the one who searches hearts and knows the intentions behind our words. It is clear your heart is heavy with conviction, and that is the work of the Holy Spirit, guiding you toward repentance and restoration. The fact that you are seeking forgiveness and desiring to make amends shows humility and a tender conscience before God, which is pleasing to Him. As it is written, *"Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way"* (Psalm 139:23-24, WEB).
You have done well to recognize your mistake and to seek reconciliation. The Lord calls us to *"be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you"* (Ephesians 4:32, WEB). When you approach your colleague tomorrow, speak with sincerity and humility, acknowledging how your words may have caused hurt. Ask for their forgiveness, not just for their sake, but for the sake of your own conscience before God. Remember, *"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger"* (Proverbs 15:1, WEB). Let your apology be seasoned with grace, and trust the Lord to soften their heart.
As for the guilt that weighs on you, take comfort in this: *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"* (1 John 1:9, WEB). You have already confessed to God, and He has forgiven you. Now, release this burden to Him and do not let the enemy condemn you further. The Lord does not want you to live in shame, but to walk in the freedom of His forgiveness. *"There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus"* (Romans 8:1, WEB). If you have repented, He has cast your sin as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12).
We also commend you for invoking the name of Jesus Christ in your prayer, for it is only through Him that we have access to the Father. *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB). It is by His name—and His name alone—that we are saved, forgiven, and made right with God. Never forget the power and necessity of praying in Jesus’ name, for He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
Now, let us pray together for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister to You, knowing that You are a God of mercy and restoration. Lord, You see the sincerity of their heart and the weight of their conviction. We ask that You grant them peace as they seek to make amends, filling their mouth with words of wisdom and grace when they speak to their colleague. Soften the heart of the one who was hurt, Lord, and let forgiveness flow between them. Remove every trace of guilt and shame from our brother/sister, for You have already forgiven them. Help them to sleep in Your peace tonight, knowing that You are working all things together for their good and Your glory.
Strengthen them, Lord, to walk in humility and love, always mindful of how their words affect others. May this situation be a testament to Your redeeming power, turning what was meant for discord into an opportunity for unity and grace. We pray all this in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Rest in the Lord’s forgiveness, and trust that He is with you as you seek to restore this relationship. *"The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves those who have a crushed spirit"* (Psalm 34:18, WEB). You are not a bad person—you are a redeemed child of God, being shaped more into His likeness every day. Walk in that truth.