" Cloth yourselves, therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].  Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]” (Colossians 3:12-13, Amplified).

Forgiveness is a choice only we can make.  However forgiveness isn’t easy because it pulls against our concept of justice.   Our flesh wants revenge and to see the person suffer as much as we believe we have suffered.  But holding unforgiveness in our hearts keeps us in bondage to the hurts and memories of the past. It stifles our joy and poisons our relationships.

Forgiveness is essential if we are to grow spiritually and live productive and fruitful lives as the Father has ordained. You can take the first step toward forgiveness by seeing the person as God see them: a person in need of love and not a source of hurt.  Is this not what Christ did when he hung on the cross?  He looked on those who were crucifying Him and ask the Father to forgive them.

Forgiving someone who has wronged us may seem the hardest thing to do, but when we forgive we demonstrate the very heart or nature of God, which is love.

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