Forgiveness

How hard is it to ask someone to forgive you for hurting them? 

I believe that admitting or acknowledging that you've wronged someone takes courage, but confronting that person and asking them to forgive you (not knowing if they are willing to forgive you) takes humility. Matthew 5:23 & 24 says:

"If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God."

Broken relationships can hinder your relationship with God. If you know you've wronged someone don't let your pride rise up and ignore it, humble yourself and apologize. Our attitude towards others reflect our relationship with God.

 God also calls us to forgive those who hurt us. Jesus told His disciples: 

"Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive."  Luke 17:4

That's a tough pill to swallow! But, as we realize how Christ has forgiven us, it should produce an attitude of forgiveness towards others. When we don't forgive others we are setting ourselves above Christ. 

In Matthew 6:14 &15, Jesus gives us a warning about forgiveness.

"If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your father will not forgive your sins," 

God will refuse to forgive us if we refuse to forgive others. When asking God to forgive you of your sins, you should also ask yourself if you have forgiven those who have wronged you.

Remember to speak to your children about forgiveness. Remind them that just as Christ died in the cross for our sins and forgives us everyday day for our trespasses, so should we forgive others. 


PRAYERS FOR FORGIVENESS


May __________know that with you there is forgiveness (Psalm 130:4)

May __________ repent and be baptized in your name, Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of his sins. (Acts 2:38)

May __________ forgive others if he holds something against them. (Mark 11:25) 

Heavenly Father, may _________ forgive others their trespasses as you forgive his. (Matthew 6:14) 

May ________ forgive is brother from his heart (Matthew 18:35)

May ________ be kind to others, tenderhearted and forgiving others as you forgave him. (Ephesians 4:32)

May __________ remember that you are ready to forgive, are gracious and merciful, are slow to anger and are abounding in steadfast love. (Nehemiah 9:17)


"Forgiveness releases the offense into God's hands." - Lysa Terkeurst


Love your kids on purpose!


Sarah
Mom After God