Why Forgive?

Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. (Luke 23:34)

When a friend betrayed me, I knew I would need to forgive her, but I wasn’t sure that I could. Her words pierced deeply inside me, and I felt stunned with pain and anger. Although we talked about it and I told her I forgave her, for a long time whenever I’d see her I felt tinges of hurt, so I knew I still clung to some resentment. One day, however, God answered my prayers and gave me the ability to let go completely. I was finally free.

Forgiveness lies at the heart of the Christian faith, with our Savior extending forgiveness even when He was dying on the cross. Jesus loved those who had nailed Him there, uttering a prayer asking His Father to forgive them. He didn’t hang on to bitterness or anger, but showed grace and love to those who had wronged Him.

This is a fitting time to consider before the Lord any people we might need to forgive as we follow Jesus’s example in extending His love to those who hurt us. When we ask God through His Spirit to help us forgive, He will come to our aid—even if we take what we think is a long time to forgive. When we do, we are freed from the prison of unforgiveness. 

Lord Jesus Christ, through Your grace and power as You dwell in me, help me to forgive, that Your love will set me free. Amen.

When I read this I felt I needed to share it with someone today. Hurt can linger, rob of blessings and hinder God’s plan for your life. Do not allow the enemy one more day of opportunity to rob you of what’s rightfully yours, freedom. Break the chains of unforgiveness today. God can and will free you from the prison of unforgiveness.

Forgive the inexcusable because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

Have a wonderful day in The Lord!

Today’s Reading is Luke 23:32-34