Real Hope: ForgivenessSample

The Hardest and Best Thing You’ll Ever Do

Forgiveness is kind of a big deal when it comes to church, faith and following Jesus. It’s in the Lord’s prayer; it’s mentioned over 100 times in the Bible, and it’s what Jesus addressed on the cross. It’s what we’re called to do and what we’re often known for outside of the walls of a church. But it’s not easy. In fact, sometimes it feels nearly impossible.

Because, in order to forgive someone, an offense has to have been committed. Whether it’s minor like someone cutting you off in traffic or a major betrayal of trust, forgiveness is hard. In Ephesians we’re encouraged to forgive quickly and thoroughly in order to have unity and be mature Christians, and I feel like Paul gets how hard forgiveness is. He understands that the longer we take to forgive and let go, the harder it becomes. If we forgive in part and not in full, we run the risk of bitterness creeping in again.

I’m sure, like me, you’ve thought: "But I’m not ready to forgive them yet." Can I encourage you to try it anyway? Even if you don’t mean it at first, simply uttering the words "I forgive" can have power. You might still feel angry or upset, but when you ask God to help you forgive, He goes to work on your behalf.

Forgiveness and unforgiveness are both powerful forces in our lives. Unforgiveness is a cancer that will destroy you from within. But forgiveness is a freeing balm. Who do you need to forgive today? Be encouraged to do it quickly and completely.

Written by STEFF WILLIS