Article - Forgiveness
Matthew 5:44 - But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you
The above verse would have to, to me be the hardest at times to understand and also to practice.
The other day I was talking to a lady about her husband, he had cheated on her, he had systematically lied to her continuous. He made a public mockery of her. You know what as I listen to this woman speak I just thought what the hell are you still doing with him. As she continued her story I began to understand.
She said at the start she wanted to repay evil for evil but became convicted by Romans 12:17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. By this time I was really starting to be convicted. So instead of becoming bitter she began to pity her husband completely seeing his miserable behavior as a cry for help. So she began to love him and pray for him, even though the more she did these things the worst things got.
Romans 12:20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."
Well the above verse began to spring into action in this beloved woman’s life. Her husband began to feel God’s conviction upon his life. He began to change. All during this time this woman kept praying and felt the amazing healing power of forgiveness and love in her life. This couple are now powering for God and are a living testimony to forgiveness.
There are things that seem to be unforgivable in our lives, but the forgiveness of God is unlimited and he has instructed us to be the same. Matthew 18:21-22 21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" 22Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. This scripture is such a perfect answer to our forgiveness of others. To me it is the ultimate conviction verse to make us see that no matter what someone does we do have the ability to forgive.
Really what does forgiveness mean?
Dictionary: Forgiveness is the mental, emotional and/or spiritual process of ceasing to feel resentment or anger against another person for a perceived offense, difference or mistake, or ceasing to demand punishment or restitution
Bible: Matthew 6:14 - For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Some famous quotes: Forgiveness is the key to action and freedom. — Hannah Arendt
Really the all of the above meanings really make forgiveness an act of freedom, releasing you emotionally, mentally, and spiritually from that person’s actions and opening the door way to God’s power in your life.
If you have un-forgiveness toward someone for anything please pray this pray.
Dear Lord Heavenly Father,
I give ____________ (insert persons name) actions to you. I forgive them for their offense and pray for your peace to come upon me.
In your name I pray
AMEN.
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