I have known folks that made big mistakes in their lives. They changed. In some cases they came to know the Lord after their mistake. We can see the change. It makes forgiving them easier.
When a believer stumbles, we are often not so quick to forgive even when we know it is real. Why is that? Do you know?
We all make mistakes. The hardest thing for folks is to accept when they make a really big mistake is that their families don’t trust them any more. This is often very hurtful to them. On the one hand, they understand why. Nevertheless, they hurt because forgiveness eludes them.
The main reason we do not forgive believers as easily when they fail is because how deeply they’ve hurt us. Often we are afraid they will continue to hurt us. Although we may expect a nonbeliever to behave badly, we hold believers to a higher standard.
Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Matthew 18:21-22
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:14-15
We know that we are supposed to forgive. Could it be that we don’t forgive because we don’t let go of it? We refuse to let God take care of it. Perhaps we even feel we lose when we forgive. Maybe we think we have not made the other person pay enough.
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:19-21
I have a favorite expression when I think someone has done me wrong. I simply remember, “God saw it!” When I remember that God saw it, I also know that I do not have to fix it. God will take care of it in His timing.
I challenge you today. The next time someone does something that you don’t like, don’t get mad. Just remember, “God saw it!” Then let God deal with it. Let that be one less thing on your to do list!
LIFE APPLICATION
Key Focal Verse:
Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.
2 John 1:3
Today’s challenge is to ask God to show you who you need to forgive. Ask God to help you let go of old hurts. Trust God to take care of new issues as they arise. Forgiveness is not only a question of obedience, but unforgiveness really is a very heavy load to carry. Ask God to show you how to let go of it.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
John 14:27