There are so many times in the Word where God tells us that we need to forgive. When we withhold forgiveness, it may seem like we are in control. In control of our feelings and the way we wish the other person felt. To hold something over them, to not release them, but really we are the ones caught in the net. But God instructs us to forgive, not because they deserve it or have earned it, but because HE forgave US when we did not deserve or earn it. Because He forgave, we can forgive.
“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has also forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:30-32 (NASB)
“So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.” Colossians 3:12-14 (MSG)
God admonishes us to not only forgive, but to do it quickly. To wipe the slate clean so we can allow healing to begin. To not allow a wound to fester and the poison of bitterness fill our hearts. Anything God asks us to do we can be assured that we have the ability to do it, otherwise He would be unjust. But it is always something He does with and through us because it’s only by His love that we can do it. When we clothe ourselves with His love we can forgive others as we have been forgiven. So thankful that Jesus showed us how, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” ~Be Blessed, Jenny
~JENNY RIEFLIN MINISTRIES~ 