Love Thy Neighbour – hoodSample

FORGIVE ONE ANOTHER

In any relationship, whether in a family, with a parent, a spouse or a friend, forgiveness will be necessary. The same goes within a neighbourhood community. Hard times will arise and there will be trials and tribulations. Someone might say something that hurts us or do something that upsets us; and as a result, offence can occur. 

The Bible, however, explains that we are to forgive one another, "bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:13)." When we do not forgive, un-forgiveness festers and causes disunity. Jesus created us so we would live in unity with one another, not in division. 

Forgiveness isn’t always easy. What I have realized is that holding on to un-forgiveness and unresolved feelings entraps you. Often the person who has upset you is none the wiser. But as a result of your unforgiveness, bitterness and anger builds up inside you. The Bible says that we must get rid of bitterness, rage and anger and instead be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as Christ forgave us. 

Whenever I find it difficult to forgive, I am reminded that Jesus, the perfect Creator and Saviour of the world, forgave me despite my mistakes and wrong doings. I am a new creation in Him. The Bible says, "Above all, we are to love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins" (1 Peter 4:8). We need to make allowances for each other’s faults, forgive those who offend us and love them just as Christ loved us. 

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for your forgiveness. God, I ask you to help me to forgive those who have hurt me. I ask you to help me to cast offence aside and, instead, be kind and compassionate to others. Thank You for showing me how to love others. Amen.