Sometimes we need to forgive others
Sometimes we need to forgive ourselves (the trait of guilt)
If you’re unforgiving, you might:
- Bring anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience
- Become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can’t enjoy the present
- Become depressed or anxious
- Feel that your life lacks meaning or purpose, or that you’re at odds with your spiritual beliefs
- Lose valuable and enriching connectedness with others
Colossians 3:12-15 NIV
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
- Ephesians 4:32 NIV Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
- 1 John 1:9 NIV If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Note
- Forgiveness does not mean the offense is ok
- Forgiveness is a deliberate act of love, mercy, and grace.
- Forgiveness is a decision to not hold something against another person, despite what he or she has done to you.
- If you don’t know when you can, don’t say you never will…
14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
- 1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
- Philippians 4:6-7 NIV Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Remember:
Forgiveness does not mean the offense was ok. It mean we choose to not longer hold it against the offender.