By Lisa Wilmore
Blessings Dear Hearts,
Let us thank God for our Savior, Jesus Christ, and for the privilege of walking this Christian journey. The presence of Jesus is our strength, our comfort, and our hope. Today, take a moment to simply tell the Lord, “Thank You.”
As we walk this journey of faith, there are times when we are disappointed by the actions of others. In those moments, we may harbor resentment, bitterness, or even a desire to retaliate. These attitudes and emotions are clear indications that unforgiveness has taken root in our hearts. If left unchecked, it can consume our thoughts, hinder our spiritual growth, and negatively affect our lives.
We must choose to move past the hurt and let go of the offense against us. An unwillingness to forgive is evidence that one’s heart is consumed by pride and selfishness. We must ask God to forgive us for any “ill will” against those who wrong us and open our hearts to love, even those we do not feel deserve it.
The Word of God reminds us in Ephesians 4:31-32 to “get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander… instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” When we forgive, we free our hearts from bondage and allow God’s peace to rule within us. Yes, God forgave us through His Son Jesus Christ, for those who believe, so we must do the same and forgive our offenders. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but when Christ resides in our hearts, and He is love, then it is doable. We must yield to Him and His strength to move past the hurt and forgive.
Luke records Jesus’ teachings about forgiveness and faith in Luke 17. Jesus said to His disciples, “I am warning you! 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 NLT).
Jesus lets us know in His Word that there will be offenses, but we must handle them in a manner where we forgive, even if it happens more than one times. So, “Move past the hurt and forgive”. Believe me, forgiveness may be the biggest step you take toward freeing yourself from the burden and bondage of unforgiveness. So, ‘move past the hurt and forgive.”
Let Us Pray
Father, thank You for Your Word and for the gentle reminder of our responsibility to forgive and of what You expect from us as Christian believers. Thank You for the love You have placed within us, which gives us the strength to let go of offenses and extend forgiveness, even when it seems impossible.
Thank You for the gift of genuine forgiveness that eases the pain, brings healing to our hearts, and allows us to move forward in freedom and peace.
We love You with all our hearts.
In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.
Jesus Saves!
