Forgive

Colossians 3:13

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

I think it is safe to say we have all been hurt by someone, and probably many times.

As I continued to study the Word during my incarceration, I learned that I needed to forgive those who had offended and hurt me throughout my life. That was difficult at first, but I made a conscious decision to forgive them. All the bad feelings, and desire to get even, that I had been carrying was hurting only me. I decided to give it all up and let it go.

What I discovered was that when we hold un-forgiveness towards someone, it causes a root of bitterness in us – a stronghold for the enemy. Like the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35, we turn ourselves over to “the tormenters” of anger, resentment, hatred, temper, and control – all of which can lead to retaliation, violence and even murder.

Since Jesus has forgiven us, we must forgive others. As we exercise patience, exhibit love, and extend forgiveness, we are exemplifying the qualities of Christ. Our best witness to others is not necessarily something we preach, rather it is a life well walked-out in Christ.

TODAY’S CHALLENGE:

Ask the Holy Spirit to bring to your remembrance the events and persons in your life where you have been hurt. Make a list, and pray to the Father about each one. Tell Him you forgive, and ask Him to heal the hurt you felt when it happened.

Ask Father God to forgive you for holding un-forgiveness.

Dive Deeper: Study Colossians 3; Ephesians 4:22-32.