Forgiveness is one of the most powerful expressions of love that one person can show another. It is not only beneficial to the one being forgiven, but is essential for the well-being of the one offering forgiveness. Jesus tells a story of a servant who was forgiven of an exorbitant debt, yet he would not forgive his servant of a very small debt. This is a picture of our lives. God offers to forgive all of our sins through the sacrifice of His only Son Jesus, but we in turn are required to forgive others. It is not an option, it is a command from God.
Some would say, “But you don't know how they hurt me, I just don't feel I can forgive." This is where we realize the limits of our natural human love, and see how much we need God's love. 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that God's love is patient and kind, and keeps no record of being wronged. Natural human love is not able to love like that. Romans 5:5 tells us, “God's love has been placed in our hearts by the Holy Spirit." Our part is to yield to that love.
Also, while we are talking about forgiveness, forgive yourself. Many people struggle with letting go of mistakes they have made. They say, “I just can't forgive myself for that." If Almighty God is willing to forgive us of our sins, who are we to hold onto them? We need to receive the forgiveness God offers us, forgive ourselves, and then forgive others. Freely you have received, freely give.
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray to our Heavenly Father, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." If we really want to live, forgive.
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