Day 7: The ultimate goal of forgiveness

The ultimate goal of granting forgiveness is to bring glory and honor to God. Forgiveness is not so much about us as it is about Him. It’s a high calling for an opportunity to be part of something eternal and shower our gratitude to the One who forgave us for everything. It’s an offering, a sacrifice, a love gift to God…for Him and Him alone. It is also a credible way to show the world that the Gospel is real. When we extend His forgiveness to others, it is a huge testimony of God working in our lives and our trust in Him. Forgiveness shows spiritual maturity and a deeper understanding of our own depravity and need for God’s forgiveness.

With the power of the Holy Spirit, we truly can forgive anyone for anything. In Acts 7:59-60, we read of the account of Stephen, the first person to be martyred for having faith in Jesus. It says, “And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And falling to his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep (died).” Stephen was able to forgive while he was being stoned. That is impossible without the power and the strength of the Holy Spirit inside of him and us.

When I was a missionary overseas, I was sexually assaulted on a crowded bus. I remember wishing I could move and fight back, but I froze. When I returned to my apartment, I fell at the doorframe and wept. I could only lie on my bed and listen to worship music.

That’s when I heard God ask me, “Holly, do you realize how depraved this man is to do this in public? Can you pray for his salvation? If he comes to faith in Me, I can change him, and he will no longer assault women.”

I replied, “Yes, Lord. I pray for his salvation.”

Then I heard the Lord ask, “Can you forgive him for his sin against you?”

Again, I replied, “Yes, Lord, I forgive and release him to You.”

Then, I heard the Lord ask me the most challenging question of all. “Can you thank Me for allowing this to happen to you and not some other woman who does not know Me? You have Me to walk through this with, but other women do not. I know you will heal as we walk through this together.”

With great surrender, I said, “Lord, thank you for letting this happen to me. I know we can heal together.”

With the Holy Spirit, we can choose to forgive and even thank God for the journey He has us on. We are broken people in need of a Savior to forgive and heal us. But the people who harm us are broken too and desperately need a Savior and healing as well. Will you pray for them? Will you forgive them? And will you trust God with the journey He’s allowed in your life? I promise you; it is worth it. There is freedom in forgiveness, and there is hope when we pursue peace with others.

Reflect on these questions:

• How might God be asking you to pursue peace with others?
• Is there anyone you need to forgive in your heart today so that you can experience God’s grace and forgiveness in your own life?

Think through rubs or friction you feel with others. Then, determine your next step to walk toward them to pursue peace. Invite the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom, strength, and courage, knowing that if God asks you to do this, He will be with you and help you be a peacemaker to others.

Explore other resources from Holly Melton at: www.hollymelton.org