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The Exercise of Forgiveness

You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.
Matthew 5:43-44

It has been said that life is an exercise in forgiveness. How true. Christ understood the importance of forgiveness when he commanded, "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 4:44). But sometimes, forgiveness is difficult indeed.

When we have been injured or embarrassed, we feel the urge to strike back and to hurt the one who has hurt us. Christ instructs us to do otherwise. Believers are taught that forgiveness is God’s way and that grace is a central part of God’s plan for our lives. In short, we are commanded to weave the thread of forgiveness into the very fabric of our lives.

Today, as you go about your daily walk, remember that you have already been forgiven by your Heavenly Father, and so, you are to forgive others. If you have bitterness against anyone, take your bitterness to God and leave it there. If you are angry, pray for God’s healing hand to calm your spirit. If you are troubled by some past injustice, read God’s Word and remember His commandment to forgive. When you follow that commandment and sincerely forgive those who have hurt you, you’ll discover that a heavy burden has been lifted from your shoulders. And, you’ll discover that although forgiveness is indeed difficult, with God’s help, all things are possible.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, Your word is clear that I am to love my enemies and pray for those who persecute me. I need Your help to follow Your command. Only with Your help can I do this so that others can see Christ in me and understand His great love for them. Help me to trust in You in all things and love others like You love me. I pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen