Forgiveness is one of the most powerful, but least understood and most underused by us, but most taught concepts in the Bible.
Forgiveness is a gift you give to others. But it is more than just that. When you forgive, you give a powerful and liberating gift to yourself. You free yourself from abuse and bondage and allowing God to heal your pain.
Our pride is wounded when we are hurt. We blame others for our pain. We need our perpetrator to experience hurt and pain to even up the score. We think that we will be "healed" when our attacker experiences pain. Unknowingly, we give that other person ongoing control and power over us.
Jesus modeled forgiveness perfectly for us. Think of all those whom Jesus forgave: the woman caught in adultery, Peter who denied he knew Jesus, the criminal on the cross -- even those who crucified Him. Offering forgiveness brings joy and peace; withholding forgiveness brings bitterness.
Don't let your pride get in the way of forgiving others.
If you are withholding forgiveness, you are missing a wonderful opportunity to experience joy and spread it to others. Make your joy grow today and gain the must-have forgiveness of your Lord for your sins. Remember, forgiveness is a gift for you, not for others.
Forgiving others is very pleasing to God. Whether you submit to God and forgive others or you fester in bitterness and revenge is entirely up to you.
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Editor's note: The Rev. Dr. Scott Stewart is the pastor of Pea Ridge United Methodist Church and Brightwater Methodist Church. The opinions expressed are those of the writer. He can be contacted at [email protected] or 479-659-9519.
Religion on 10/16/2019