Colossians 3:13(KJV)
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
In a world filled with human fallibility, we must acknowledge that offenses are an inevitable part of human interaction. Offenses are a tool of temptation aimed at the ruin and condemnation of humanity. While it is unavoidable that offenses will occur, it is within our capacity to extend forgiveness to those who have wronged us gracefully. Our anchor Scripture says we are to bear with one another and should forgive one another as Christ forgave us. The Apostle Paul’s teachings clearly guide believers’ transformation from their old life before salvation to the new life. “Bearing with one another enforces the necessity of enduring with fellow believers, irrespective of differences and challenges. This demands living with humility and demonstrating patience and compassion towards one another. The interconnectedness of members in Christ’s body is emphasized, underscoring the shared ownership and unity in the face of difficulties. Bearing with one another involves forgiveness and allowing love to triumph over shortcomings.
As followers of the Christian faith, we are called to practice forgiveness unconditionally, regardless of the severity of the transgression. Ephesians 4:32 says, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Forgiveness is a conscious and intentional decision to extend love, mercy, and grace towards someone who has wronged us. This concept is considered a fundamental principle for individuals who identify as Christian, as it is directly commanded by God (Luke 17:3-4) and is a prerequisite for receiving divine forgiveness. Emulating God’s unconditional forgiveness toward us, we are called to show others the same level of forgiveness. By forgiving, we relinquish our feelings of resentment and bitterness, liberating ourselves from the emotional burden caused by the offense. This process affirms our recognition that the wrong done to us is not our fault and acknowledges the fallibility of the offender as a fellow human being capable of making mistakes. When Stephen was on the verge of death, he fervently implored God not to blame those who were stoning him but to forgive them. In this life, many will throw stones at us, but forgive and move forward. By doing so, we not only thwart negativity but also fortify our spirit against future attacks. In our interactions, forgiveness can potentially extinguish conflicts and promote harmony.
Beloved, refusing to keep a record of wrongs is a clear expression of God’s love and forgiveness. Love keeps no record of wrongs, for you forgive as Christ has forgiven you. In times of turmoil, it’s essential to remember the power of forgiveness. When faced with adversity, instead of harboring resentment, choosing to forgive for your lack of forgiveness can sabotage your comprehensive victory. Forgiveness is a crucial element for the acceptability of fasting and prayers. Just as no one can offend you an infinite number of times, it is essential to learn to forgive others abundantly. This act of forgiveness ensures that your spiritual practices are not comparable to a hunger strike. Learn to forgive one another even before the offense comes. Don’t become an emotional historian, keeping deliberate accounts of the wrongs you have suffered. Release every offender from guilt permanently and unconditionally, operating as if nothing wicked ever happened between you. As well as forgiving, you must purposefully forget. Today, forgive all those who have offended you and release them from every captivity of bitterness in your heart. Don’t fall into the devil’s trap because he will send people to offend you. If you have access to God at the place of prayer, you must completely deal with the spirit of unforgiveness.
O Lord, help me to forgive one another, let every seed of unforgiveness in my life be consumed by fire in Jesus’ Name!