W O R D S O F E N C O U R A G E M E N T: F O R G I V E N E S S

We’ve all been wronged before, and we know that forgiveness can be difficult.

This is because we’re social creations, and future interactions always seem to be based on past interactions.

But next time we find forgiveness difficult, let’s turn to the Bible.

There are at least three reasons why we should forgive one another

1 . I T I S A N O R D E R O F J E S U S H I M S E L F

“Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.”— Luke 17:4

We need to lead Christ-like lives, and this means unconditionally forgiving our neighbor according to the words of the Lord’s Prayer…

“ A N D F O R G I V E U S O U R T R E S PA S S E S , A S W E F O R G I V E T H O S E W H O T R E S PA S S A G A I N S T U S ”

2 . I T I S R E Q U I R E D F O R O U R O W N F O R G I V E N E S S

“ F O R I F Y O U F O R G I V E O T H E R P E O P L E W H E N T H E Y S I N A G A I N S T Y O U , Y O U R H E AV E N LY FAT H E R W I L L A L S O F O R G I V E Y O U ” — M AT T H E W : 6 : 1 4

“Do unto others…” These words remind us to treat others as we want to be treated.

When you mess up, don’t you want to be forgiven? Extend that desire to others. God will notice!

3 . O N LY G O D C A N J U D G E

T H E R E I S O N LY O N E L A W G I V E R A N D J U D G E , T H E O N E W H O I S A B L E T O S AV E A N D D E S T R O Y. B U T Y O U – W H O A R E Y O U T O J U D G E Y O U R N E I G H B O R ? ( J A M E S 4 : 1 2 )

Our job is to forgive, not to judge and punish. That, writes James, is the domain of our Heavenly Father.

– S T E V E M U N S E Y

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