FORGIVENESS
In the Gospel of Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches us about forgiveness. He says that if we forgive others their sins, our Heavenly Father will also forgive us. But if we do not forgive others when they hurt us, our Father will not forgive our trespasses.
It is important, as believers, that we forgive one another. When we truly forgive others, we let go of the anger, hurt, and resentment toward the person who wronged us. We choose not to hold their wrongdoing against them.
Forgiveness does not mean pretending that the hurt never happened or that it was okay for someone to hurt you even though it may be difficult to trust them again right away, you can ask God to help soften your heart and make you willing to forgive.
When you forgive those who have trespassed against you, you are saying, “I refuse to allow pain and hurt to remain in my heart.” You must release the bitterness in your heart and choose peace instead. Once you forgive the same way Jesus showed mercy, you begin the next step toward healing. You choose to be healed from the hurt and let go of anger.
In First Corinthians 13:4-5, we are reminded what true love looks like. Love is patient and kind. Love does not envy or boast. It is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way. It is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs.
Above all, in First Peter 4:8, we are told to love one another deeply because love covers a multitude of sins.
Love from a sincere heart is the key that unlocks true forgiveness.
So, brothers and sisters, let us focus on forgiving one another and letting go of unforgiveness. Holding on to past hurts only weighs down the heart, but forgiveness brings freedom and healing. As we release bitterness and choose mercy, we allow the love of God to flow freely through our hearts and into the lives of others.
When love leads the way, forgiveness becomes possible and peace begins to grow within us.
When we forgive we make room for the love of God to heal what pain once tried to destroy.
Today, take a moment to reflect: Is there someone you need to forgive so that the love of God can flow freely through your heart?
Choose to Forgive. Release the hurt. Let go of unforgiveness, and allow the love of God to bring peace to your heart.