The dictionary definition of forgive is to cease to feel resentment against an offender, i.e., to pardon ones enemies. Matthew 18:21-22 "Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven."
Today I want to talk about forgiveness. There are things going on in our own lives with people in our families, in our personal relationships, within our communities, and in our nation that may be causing us offense and pain. It's not easy to feel these things or deal with these things when they happen, but as Believers there are some things we must do when these situations occur. First we must first pray to God about it. Second, we have to forgive. Third, we have to love them no matter what happens, even if we don't want to, even if it's hard to, even when they have different ideas or beliefs, even if they offend us, even when they cause us great hurt or pain. We do this not because we feel like it, but because we choose to live by the whole Word of God, not just parts; and in all occasions, not just when it's convenient to us. If we choose to not do these things then we are not acting any different than the world. If we walk in bitterness, resentment, hate, judgment, and unforgiveness, then we are not being the light of the world as God has called us to be (Matthew 5:14). Let us remember even hanging on the cross Christ forgave (Luke 23:34), those that had done unspeakable things to Him, and as Believers we must do the same with ALL men. Let us remember while we were yet sinners Christ forgave us (Romans 5:8), and He gave His son for ALL of us (John 3:16).
Mark 11:25 (NCV) When you are praying, if you are angry with someone, forgive him so that your Father in heaven will also forgive your sins.
Colossians 3:12-14 (Message Bible) So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
Romans 12:14 (NIV) Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
Luke 6:35-38 (NLT) “Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven. Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.
Matthew 5:43-48 (Message Bible) "You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that. "In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
Tracy Houston
Kingdom Vizion Ministries
www.kingdomvizion.org
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