"Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
(Colossians 3:13)
Forgiveness is one of the most valuable attitudes among God's people. Unfortunately, few manage to put it into practice. Perhaps because it is somehow tied to one's sense of self-worth or personal pride. Yet, God invites us to treat others as He has treated us. Christ forgave a massive debt we owed in His kingdom. Can we not then forgive others who, in the same way, have wronged us?
Forgiveness involves emotions, faith, and character, serving as evidence of our Christian maturity. When we forgive, we acknowledge that we too have been forgiven and that we often need forgiveness ourselves. Jesus’ parable about the two debtors in Matthew 18:23-35 teaches us just that. Having received a gift representing millions in God’s kingdom, would we not be willing to forgive the mere pennies we are owed on this earth?
Open your heart to forgive:
Reflect on the many times you have failed in your life.
If you have not yet repented or confessed those failures, you can do so right now.
When we repent and leave our sins behind, God remembers them no more. Try to also forget the offenses you’ve suffered.
Releasing forgiveness brings great peace. Ask God to help you forgive those who have hurt you in the present and the past.
Have the same mindset as Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5-11).
Read the Word of God. Through it, you will learn about the importance of forgiveness.
We have all made mistakes and need forgiveness from both the Lord and others.
Prayer:
Lord God, thank You for Your genuine and unconditional forgiveness that You have granted to me and all Your people. It is truly wonderful to be forgiven and no longer carry the weight of guilt and shame. Help me to always forgive those who offend me. It’s so difficult sometimes, Lord! Teach me to understand that forgiveness is the only Christian way to heal broken relationships. May we understand that in forgiving, we are forgiven. Help me to be more like Jesus in love and forgiveness. Amen.