Ask Yourself
Forgiveness
When someone hurts you, it hurts! Regardless if it’s intentional or unintentional a stranger or someone you love, sometimes we get hurt.
Most of us have read about how Jesus responded to the Romans and the Jews before he was tried and crucified. We know what Jesus would do, so how do we respond in a right and Christ-like way to everyday situations?
When looking at Matthew 18:21-35, Jesus tells a parable about the unmerciful servant, with verse 35 being the key point.
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” (Italics mine.)
Saying you forgive someone isn’t enough, although it’s a good start. When you compare these verses to Luke 17:4-5, you see the disciples’ response – “increase our faith!” We can’t muster it all on our own; we need God-given grace and mercy. Think of it this way, each of us owes God more than we could ever repay, and no one can offend our moral sensibilities as much as everyone offends the moral sensibilities of a perfect God!
Additionally, Jesus is quite clear; God has forgiven us; if we fail to show grace to others who have repented (guilty parties in a divorce, adulterers, gossipers, abusers, etc.), then this text simply promises us separation from him (see Matthew 6:14-15).
So, pray and ask God for more faith, mercy, and grace for those who offend you. It isn’t easy, and it still hurts, but the freedom from bitterness and resentment is immeasurable.