What It Means To Forgive

In the message "Forgive As He Forgave" we saw that our forgiveness of
others should be based on recognizing the magnitude of forgiveness
we've been given through faith in Jesus. A true understanding of
God's mercy toward us compels us to be merciful to others. But
still, forgiveness remains difficult and somewhat ambiguous. Some
hurts last sooooo long!

There are those today trying to forgive child abusers, murderers,
habitually unfaithful spouses, and a whole list of emotional and
physical pain. How do we truly forgive when it hurts so much? And
how do we know when we've properly forgiven?

Ephesians 4:31-32
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander,
along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one
another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

All forgiveness begins with a belief that God desires us to forgive
in any situation; "If you do not forgive men their sins, your Father
will not forgive your sins" (Matthew 6:15). If we are unable, or
unwilling, to forgive, we need to spend more time reflecting on the
forgiveness of Christ. Do we really understand? Do we really
believe? Our ability to forgive identifies our focus: Is our
priority on Christ or on our own needs and desires, hurts and pain?

But forgiveness is not simply saying the words "I forgive
you." Rather, forgiveness is canceling the emotional debt. It means
we love and earnestly pray for blessings in their life; "Love your
enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). We
should be able to think about the other person without bitterness,
rage, or anger. We should be able to pray for an increase in their
ministry or business, more peace in their family, and a closer
relationship with Jesus. It's amazing how much healing takes place
in our own heart when we pray for those who have caused us pain.

However, forgiveness does not necessarily mean a relationship must
continue as if the hurt never occurred. Our heart may be free of all
anger and bitterness - we may earnestly pray for the one who caused
us pain - and yet, we no longer trust or enjoy their company. My
forgiveness of a child abuser does not require me to leave my
children in their care. I can love with a Christ-like love and pray
without anger and yet guard my physical body and emotional and Spiritual heart.

It's unfortunate, but most of us are carrying some bitterness toward
another person today. These burdensome emotions should not continue
in the heart of a Child of God, and the only road to release them is
through the gate of forgiveness. Let's ask God to purify our
heart. Let's refocus on the cross and release our burdens to
Him. Let's honor our Father by showing the world what it means to forgive.

Have a Great Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

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Scripture references: The Holy Bible: New International Version.
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