Christians must choose to walk in forgiveness‬.

But, why?

Christian, you should make that choice because God has forgiven you of a multitude of sin. Every time you’ve confessed sin to Him, He’s been faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness.

I want to quickly share these two heavy Jesus bombs on forgiveness. Regardless of how you feel, the weight of His word matters most.

• Have you considered Matthew 6:12-15 lately? These verses make up the last portion of what is known as “The Lord’s Prayer” (some know it simply as the “Our Father” prayer).

Jesus teaches us that forgiveness is a core part of a prayer life that works. “Forgive us” as “we forgive” others is convicting all by itself. And then He adds, “if you do not forgive” neither “will your Father forgive” you. That’s some weighty doctrine.

• What about Luke 6:37-38? Have you read that context recently? If you really want to understand the words in red of verse 38, they must be left with verse 37 and the broader context.

It’s really more about the giving and receiving of forgiveness than your financial habits. If you suspect that you will need forgiveness again in the future, then you had better practice choosing to forgive others.

Let me get personal for a moment. I certainly understand how difficult interpersonal relationships can be to navigate. Yet, any child of God that desires to stay in a right relationship with their Father in Heaven must be willing to obey the forgiveness principles of His Kingdom.

However, I’ve found it hard to apologize and repent if I do not know or understand that I have offended someone. When approached with an offense (you hurt me, when…) my first response is an apology, without proclaiming my justification.

It does not matter whether or not I think I have done wrong. What matters to me is that someone I love feels offended. So whether the offense was accidental, intentional, or only something that was perceived wrongly, I want them to forgive me.

Peace is possible in the Body of Christ when we deal with offenses and forgiveness according to Scripture. And though it is sometimes hard, unity is worth the work.

How are you doing on the whole matter of forgiveness? Do you recognize that in spite of the pain that you’ve caused God, He still forgives you each time you confess your sin? Let me know how I can pray for you.