For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. —Matthew 6:14-15 ESV
We have been discussing forgiveness, and it is a challenging topic, as you may have discovered from last week’s blog. In today’s blog, I am not promising to answer any of the questions posed last week; however, I have a few points for us all to consider regarding forgiveness.
Firstly, we need to remember that it is the heart of God that we forgive, as evident in today’s scripture. The Lord has forgiven us on many occasions for the wrongs we have done and continues to forgive us. As humans, we get things wrong, not because we want to, but because sometimes, it just happens despite our best effort.
Secondly, forgiving denies the devil a stronghold or foothold in our lives and in the Church. Failing to forgive leads to complaints, conflicts, fighting and revenge or retribution.
“When you forgive people for what they have done, I forgive them too. For when I forgive—if, indeed, I need to forgive anything—I do it in Christ’s presence because of you, in order to keep Satan from getting the upper hand over us; for we know what his plans are.” 2 Corinthians 2:10-11 (GNT)
Also (Lastly), forgiveness has emotional, mental and physical health benefits. This time, I’m not referencing the Bible; instead, let’s turn to the renowned Mayo Clinic. Under the subject of forgiveness, there is a section on the benefits of forgiving, and I quote: “Letting go of grudges and bitterness can make way for improved health and peace of mind. Forgiveness can lead to:
- Healthier relationships.
- Improved mental health.
- Less anxiety, stress and hostility.
- Fewer symptoms of depression.
- Lower blood pressure.
- A stronger immune system.
- Improved heart health.
- Improved self-esteem.”
If the world values forgiveness, how much more do we as children of God need to walk in it? I am always humbled and astounded by individuals who declare openly to forgive someone who has killed a loved one or a partner caught in indiscretion. I sometimes wonder if I could do the same in a similar position. Nevertheless, these individuals understand why it needs to be done, and they do it, if not for the person who offended or hurt them, but mostly for themselves.
Is there anyone you are having trouble forgiving? Pray that God gives you His heart of forgiveness, and He surely will.
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 