Matthew 6:14 (KJV)
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
We live in a world where offenses are inevitable. As long as we interact with others, it’s a certainty that we will face situations that offend us. Offense is a trap designed to disrupt our peace and lead to our downfall. It’s easy to justify holding a grudge when we feel hurt or offended. However, clinging to resentment can burden our hearts and minds, hindering our growth and happiness. While offenses will come, what truly matters is our ability to rise above them and extend grace to those who have wronged us. Forgiveness is a powerful choice that frees us and allows us to move forward with strength and confidence. It is written in Colossians 3:13, “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Forgiveness can be challenging but vital to spiritual growth and emotional well-being. By forgiving others, we release that burden and open ourselves to healing and peace. It’s a powerful act of grace that not only benefits those we forgive but also enriches our own lives. We are to forgive one another as Christ forgave us.
As Christians, we are called to forgive others, regardless of how deeply an offense may hurt us. Forgiveness is not merely an option but an essential principle that defines our faith. Forgiveness is a determined choice; it’s a conscious act of will driven by our obedience to God’s command. To forgive is to release resentment and bitterness, to let go of the past. Living a lifestyle of forgiveness is a fundamental characteristic of a genuine Christian. It is also a vital condition for attaining Heaven. Furthermore, it is a prerequisite for receiving His forgiveness in our lives. Just as God has graciously extended His unconditional forgiveness to us, we are expected to do the same for our neighbors. Embracing the principle of forgiveness powerfully reflects our faith and commitment to God’s will. Forgiveness opens the door to freedom, thwarting the attacks of negativity and preventing strongholds from taking root. Regardless of our feelings, choosing to forgive releases even our greatest offenders into God’s hands, disrupting the plans of darkness. The true essence of forgiveness is revealed when we feel the liberation that follows. Ultimately, we endure the most pain when we hold onto grudges. In forgiving, we allow the Lord to free our hearts from anger, bitterness, resentment, and hurt, leading us to a place of peace. Stephen, at the point of death, cried out loudly to God not to hold this sin against those who were stoning him. Many will throw stones at us in this life, but forgive and move on. Alexander Pope once said, “To err is human; to forgive is divine.” As long as we are human, we are bound to make mistakes and offend each other. Still, we are to forgive because unforgiveness is the root of many of the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual problems we see today.
Beloved, your lack of forgiveness can sabotage your comprehensive victory. Since no one can genuinely offend you 490 times in a single day (70 times 7), it’s essential to embrace forgiveness. This mindset will ensure that your fasting and prayers are acceptable before God and not a hunger strike. It becomes powerful when you release those who have wronged you. Today, take a bold step to forgive everyone who has offended you, freeing yourself from the chains of bitterness in your heart. Don’t let the devil ensnare you, as he will undoubtedly send people your way to provoke you. If you wish to access God effectively in prayer, confront and conquer the spirit of unforgiveness decisively. Pray for those who have wronged you because prayer is one of the best ways to break down the wall of unforgiveness in your heart. If you are holding anybody in your heart, forgive them, and your life will never be the same. Pray that God will always give you the grace to forgive. Take time today to ask God to help you in your journey towards grace and forgiveness with others. Remember, show patience and understanding towards others, and forgive just as you have been forgiven.
O Lord, let every seed of unforgiveness in my life be consumed by fire in Jesus’ Name!