Forgiveness

I'm not approaching this subject from the angle of God forgiving us. We know that He readily forgives if we are faithful to repent of our wrongs. In fact, it delights Him to do so (Mic. 7:18-19; Psa. 103: 11-12). My direction in this topic is about our willingness to forgive others.

There are so many people, and unfortunately, even members of the body of Christ, who refuse to forgive others, and they're going to suffer eternally for it. I'm not being self-righteous here. I know whereof I speak. I, too, at one time held a grudge against a loved one--for 9 long years. It made me hateful and bitter. One day I realized that I couldn't continue in that vein. I decided, regardless of that other person's reaction towards me, to forgive him. At the moment I made that decision, such a weight lifted off me. It was as a cage full of doves had been set free. My point is that the one who chooses to forgive is set free. It does not mean that the forgivee is right--just that you've extended him or her grace.

A grudge held too long becomes a sin (Mt. 6:19-15; 11:25-26; Luk. 6:37-38; Eph. 4:32). God cannot allow blessings to flow into your life as long as you harbor guile in your heart towards someone else. If you feel that the person you refuse to forgive is going straight to Hell, have you ever considered that your refusal to acquit him or her will earn you a place there as well? Satan would most certainly take great delight in increasing your discomfort by having you spend eternity right next to that person. Stop procrastinating and contact that person and make it right again. It'll be the best night's sleep you've had in a long time.

Love Ya,
God Bless!