The Freedom of Forgiveness

Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Who do you need to forgive?

The biblical definition of forgiveness is defined as a release or dismissal of something or someone. Jesus was the prime example of forgiveness. Any sin committed against us, no matter how unpleasant, cannot compare to our sins against God. If God has forgiven us, how can we refuse to forgive others? This interpretation implies that anyone who harbors unforgiveness has not genuinely experienced God’s forgiveness. Forgiveness is not a suggestion; it is a command therefore, refusing to do so is an act of disobedience. Jesus exemplified forgiveness by the way he lived.

This scripture informs us that if we refuse to forgive others, our heavenly Father will not forgive us. Did you ever wonder why you have an unanswered prayer?  If we have unforgiveness in our hearts against someone else, our prayers and relationship with him will be hindered. It becomes a toxin. It poisons our hearts and minds with bitterness. Unforgiveness distorts our perspective on life and overflows into other relationships. We are held in bondage, and it has a negative impact on our physical and mental health. It is critical that we confess any unforgiveness in our hearts and repent daily in order to draw closer to our heavenly Father.  

Even as believers, we often don’t forgive as we should. Forgiveness does not come easily because we’re all susceptible to nursing offenses and withholding our forgiveness. It requires us to set aside our selfishness and pride and accept with grace the wrongs others have committed against us. Choosing forgiveness can be a liberating act. It unleashes joy, promotes healing and brings peace.

How have you been held captive by bitterness or unforgiveness?

Father God thank you for your grace and forgiveness in my life. Help me to have a forgiving heart like yours and allow me to extend grace to others. If there is anyone that I am withholding forgiveness from, please reveal it to me. I want to come to you with a clean heart so that nothing will impede my relationship with you. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

 Scripture References:

Psalm 32:1; Matthew 18:21-35; Mark 11:25; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-13