Forgiveness
Consider how important it is to forgive other people when we have been wronged or hurt by them. It is never easy, but it is necessary if we are going to experience the type of meaningful relationships that honor God and make our lives abundant. The Bible gives us clear directions on
how
we should forgive others.
First, we should be ready to forgive.
Jesus said,
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone.
If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”
Pastor Bill Hybels wrote… “My rough guess is that about 90 percent of relational breakdowns can be healed by applying this one verse.”
Second, we should be ready to forgive quickly.
Jesus also said,
“
So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”
Third, we should be ready to forgive completely.
The Apostle Paul wrote,
“
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
If we are ready to forgive others and ready to forgive both quickly and completely, then I believe we will experience God-honoring relationships and the abundant life Jesus came to give us.
