Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a crucial part of our faith as Christians. It is the act of pardoning someone for their wrongdoing or offense. Forgiveness is an essential part of our spiritual life because it helps us to live a life of freedom and peace. In this blog, we will look at what the Bible has to say about forgiveness.

The Bible teaches us that forgiveness is not an option but a commandment. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus says, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” This verse emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in our lives. If we want God to forgive us, we must also forgive others.

The Bible also teaches us that forgiveness is not just a one-time event, but a continual process. In Luke 17:3-4, Jesus says, “Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.” This verse shows that forgiveness is not just a one-time act but a continuous process.

Forgiveness also requires us to let go of our anger and bitterness towards those who have wronged us. In Colossians 3:13, Paul writes, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This verse shows that forgiveness is not just about releasing someone from their debt but also about releasing ourselves from the burden of anger and bitterness.

Furthermore, forgiveness is not just for the benefit of the offender but also for our benefit. Holding onto anger and bitterness only harms us and prevents us from experiencing the peace and joy that come from God. In Ephesians 4:31-32, Paul writes, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

I know it's hard to forgive those who have wounded us. But God designed it as a gift, as much for us as for those we forgive. Who is God bringing to mind today that you need to forgive? Take some time to pray and ask God to give you wisdom and grace as you seek to move towards forgiveness.