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Forgiveness Is Christlikeness (May 20, 2024)

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Along with the joys and blessings they bring, human relationships are bound to produce heartaches and pain. We have all suffered what we consider to be wrongs or injustices inflicted upon us by other people, even our closest friends and dearest family members. Sometimes we are cut so deeply that we hold grudges and seek revenge against those who have inflicted emotional hurt. We are quick to condemn others for their injurious acts against us, whether they are willful or not. Sadly, however, we are too often reluctant to forgive them. While folks who have caused us grief may withhold their expressions of sorrow and remorse, God has called Christians to love our neighbors as ourselves, and a godly expression of that love is forgiveness.

“"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.” (Mark 11:25)

Demonstrating His divinity, one of the hallmarks of Jesus’ earthly ministry was His forgiveness of sinners. “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more,” (John 8:11) the LORD graciously told the woman caught in an act of adultery. We grow in spiritual maturity and become more like Christ when we freely forgive those who have trespassed against us. We must discipline ourselves to let go of hurts and grudges and allow God to cultivate within us compassionate hearts. To forgive is an act of faith, demonstrating that we trust God to bring ultimate justice. The Bible teaches that our LORD is faithful to forgive us when we confess our sins, but we are required, just as faithfully, to forgive those who have mistreated us, as difficult as that may be.



 


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