Forgiveness

We must forgive. Though it is not in our nature it is crucial for our own spiritual health. We must also do it to be forgiven by God. We are hurting ourselves (and also others) by holding on to painful words, actions, thoughts, etc.

The Word...
'With You, there is forgiveness' Psalm 130:4
We must believe in order to receive forgiveness Acts. 10:43
Forgiveness is in Christ (Eph. 4:32) and is through His blood (Eph. 1:7, Heb. 9:22)
We must forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Col 3:13 - note the verb tenses)

Lord, may we truly be a people that strive for reconciliation. Let us bear with one another, considering them better than ourselves. Humbles our sense of pride and let us put on love above all things. Is there room for compassion in our hearts? Is there a place where wrong is acknowledged? Let us always take the first steps, let us not go to bed in a state of anger, but to clothe ourselves with patience, kindness, gentleness and peace. Peace for the world, peace for our souls. amen. bc