"Practicing Forgiveness"
Joshua 9:3 - 10:43
Luke 16:19-17:10
Psalm 83:1-18
Proverb 13:4
Isn't it great to be forgiven? I have really done some stupid things in my life. I've sinned against God in ways that I'm so ashamed of. And yet, I went to him and he forgave me. That's an incredible thing... He forgave the debt of my sin. Have you been forgiven? How awesome is that? Spend some time thinking about how you've been forgiven.
Forgiveness is awesome. Let's look at it in another context:
"If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive." (Luke 17:3-4)
Now how awesome is forgiveness? We LOVE to be forgiven, but when it comes to forgiving others... yeah, that's another story. Forgiving is canceling debt. It's tough when we feel someone "owes" us to say the words, "you don't owe me any more." That is so tough because our emotions and self-worth are all tangled up in the process.
But forgiveness is not an emotion. It's a decision. If we waited for the "forgiveness emotion" to come, it never would. In the time that passes before we forgive, the pain of the debt grows deeper roots in our soul. We replay the offense in our mind. We add "interest" to the "debt". This is why we must get in the habit of forgiving early and often.
This is something that can be practiced. Since it is a decision, we must learn to discipline our hearts to forgive. As with other disciplines, it isn't an instant result thing. It takes time. It takes effort.
But when we go back and remember what it feels like to be forgiven, and when we consider the hypocrisy we are in if we do not forgive, how could we do any less than wipe the slate clean for those who "owe" us. What incredible freedom there is in practicing forgiveness.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
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