Settling Accounts.

 Matt 25-26.  Settling Accounts.

                Jesus is proposing both spiritual truth, practical advice and common sense here.  First, the spiritual truth is to settle as quickly as possible accounts between you and others.  Speed is of the essence here.  Waiting or procrastination can result in terrible consequences. 

                The practical advice is simple.  If you find yourself in court because of some financial matter then meet with the person and see what you have to do to settle the matter.  Practical advice is to be friendly, co-operative and promise to commit to a practical repayment plan.  This will prevent you from losing the case and actually going to jail for the matter. 

                Common sense tells you that working out matters with others before it escalates to lawsuits, court cases and litigation is more a matter of pride or stupidity than anything else.  A friendly co-operative manner often disarms enemies and creates an atmosphere of co-operation and a desire to work things out.