Forgiveness

Forgiveness

Ahh.. There is that word yet again. It is something we all struggle with, but yet it is something we all need to do.

Has someone wronged you in a way with their words or actions?

I know it’s a hard pill to swallow and we as humans really want to lash out and strike back at them, but in our walk with God we find that is not what he wants from us. Let’s look at this from a different perspective today. So for the next few moments forget about the wrongs others have done against you. Let’s look into the wrongs you have done.

Have you ever lied, cheated, or cussed? Have you had premarital sex? Have you taken God’s great name in vain? Have you ever had an affair? Have you ever envied someone or longed to have what they have?

I am sure you answered yes to at least one of those above. In this case you have sinned against God. What if God decided to hold a grudge and lash out at you? Of course you would deserve it. But instead our God is a God of love and Forgiveness. He loves us so much that he wanted to save us from our sins. Remember the wages of sin is death. Well God sent his only son Jesus to die and conquer death so that we could be Forgiven.

So I ask you this question. Are you above God? Are you better then Him and able to hold grudges and seek revenge? I hope you answered NO. Let’ start by praying and asking for Forgiveness for your own sins and for your sin of not Forgiving others. Next you will want to ask God to please guide you and help you Forgive those who have wronged you. Then out loud say:
__their name______, I forgive you. And release them to God. Justice is for God to seek not us, so once you forgive them, it doesn’t mean you want to be their best friend, but you are freed from seeking justice and judgment against them and have given that role to the rightful owner, God.

Do you feel better? As time goes by and you continue to release this anger and resentment towards this person, you will feel 100lbs lighter almost like you could float away.

Read the following verses on your journey for Forgiveness
Psalm 51
Matthew 6:9-15
Matthew 18:21-35

Any questions or concerns about today’s message?