Forgiven To Forgive

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 
Colossians 3:13 (NIV) 

That knot in your stomach when someone hurts you—it’s amazing how long it can last, isn’t it? 

In a study in the Journal of Adult Development, 75% of people surveyed said they believed God has forgiven them for past wrongdoings, but only 52% said they have forgiven others. Only 43% said they have actively sought forgiveness for wrongs they have done. 

When you hear about forgiveness, perhaps you think, “You don’t know how much he hurt me,” or, “She doesn’t realize how badly she destroyed my life.” It’s true that when pain strikes, only you and God feel its full depth. 

 Take a look at Jesus’ words, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34, NIV).  

The way Jesus forgave those who crucified Him paved the way for you to forgive those who hurt you. Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive…” not only so you would be forgiven, but also so that you might be forgiving. 

God forgives you because Jesus died for you. His Spirit within you empowers you to forgive as He does. To live like Jesus means you forgive like Jesus. 

Those words, “Father, forgive them,” mean two things. You can die with a clean slate toward God and a clean slate toward others. When you experience Jesus’ forgiveness, you naturally extend it to others. 

Would you take a moment to write the names of those who have hurt or wronged you—those whom you find it difficult to forgive? Beside each name, write the word “Forgiven.” One by one, you can pray and release your anger, hurt, and bitterness to God. 

When you finish, rip up the paper as a symbol of release. And receive the grace to forgive as the Lord forgave you. 

Prayer: Dear Father, thank You for Your forgiveness. I praise You that You choose never to bring up my faults. Help me release any unforgiveness and bitterness in my heart toward those who have hurt me. I entrust them to You. Help me to love my enemies and to pray for those who hurt me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.