As we get closer the end of the year let’s not go into the New Year with unforgiveness in our hearts. Consciously choose forgiveness regardless of others.
Jesus was matter-of-fact: "Embrace this God-life. Really embrace it, and nothing will be too much for you. This mountain, for instance: Just say, 'Go jump in the lake'—no shuffling or shilly-shallying—and it's as good as done. That's why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything. And when you assume the posture of prayer, remember that it's not all asking. If you have anything against someone, forgive—only then will your heavenly Father be inclined to also wipe your slate clean of sins." (Mark 11:22-25 MSG)
Forgiveness is not about the other person, or even for the other person, it’s really about us and for us!
The Word Mark 11:22-25, above, tells us:
Unforgiveness will impact the power of God’s Word operating effectively in your life.
Unforgiveness will impact your prayer life. (Ever wonder why your prayers aren’t being answered? Could there be some unforgiveness somewhere? It’s something to think about.)
Most importantly, unforgiveness will impact your receiving forgiveness from God when you ask for it. When we choose not to forgive others, we’ve also chosen not to receive God’s forgiveness.
So, the next time you have the opportunity to forgive and you choose not to, remember what you have given up in order to continue being angry, resentful, hurt, and unforgiving with the person(s) involved. Is holding on to unforgiveness worth the cost?
I’m going to say this straight, if you don’t forgive others don’t bother standing on God’s Word, praying, or asking for forgiveness from God for something you’ve done.
The Word is clear on this:
“This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God.” (Matthew 5:23-24 MSG)
“In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part.” (Matthew 6:14-15 MSG)
Choose forgiveness, even if the other person is in the wrong or doesn’t accept your apology. Why? You’ve been obedient to God and He will honor that. Make it right with your brother/sister first, then you can come boldly to the throne and receive God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness. It’s not easy but it is required by God.
Self-Examination, Prayer and Journaling Opportunity:
Ask God to show you those that you may not have forgiven. Then ask Him to help you to forgive them and mean it. (You’ll know if you’ve forgiven when the issue is brought up and it doesn’t cause you to become angry or upset all over again.) Ask God to help you forgive yourself. Then praise Him for the gift of forgiveness.
Think about what forgiveness means in its purest form.
Reflect on Jesus’ journey to Calvary and when being mistreated His response was:
“And Jesus prayed, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34 AMPC)
Think about what it would feel like for you to offer unconditional forgiveness to someone that has hurt you.
List the things you believe can’t be forgiven. Then read what God’s Word says and apply His unconditional love and forgiveness to you and to your situation.
Write a prayer to God thanking Him for His forgiveness and that we have an Advocate, Jesus Christ, who pleads our case and covers us with His blood.
Be Encouraged! ❤
(Updated From the Vault of LWM)
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