Intro
When we consider the concept of forgiveness, we often think of it as a small part of life. If it happens it happens, if it doesn’t it doesn’t. But have we ever considered the benefits it brings to us, the ones who are posturing toward forgiveness? Have we ever contemplated the negative effects of avoiding forgiveness? This blog post delves into the fruits of forgiveness and the pitfalls of avoiding it, underscoring the importance of this command in our lives.
The Fruits of Forgiving One of the most significant benefits of granting forgiveness is the love it brings. By forgiving someone, we not only foster love for the other person but also for ourselves. This act of forgiveness allows us to overcome a battle, a battle of one: yourself. Not forgiving someone really only negatively affects you, come on somebody! It is through this process that we build a bridge of understanding and sincerity. This bridge is not a one-time structure; it stands strong for future instances, helping us navigate similar situations with grace and steadfastness. The act of forgiving strengthens us, providing us with a new armor of love, understanding, and being Christ like. God is merciful, so we should be too! The Pitfalls of Avoiding Forgiveness On the other hand, avoiding forgiveness can lead to harmful consequences, for ONLY you. It fosters stress and anger, creating that battle of one as mentioned above: yourself! Ironically, this is a battle we can never win because it’s one sided and it’s only hurting yourself, mentally, physically and spiritually. It is formed from our refusal to let our guard down and forgive. This battle is a never-ending cycle of suffering and bitterness. We personally want better for you here at Who We Are In Christ ministries! I’m sure you want better for yourself as well. It is crucial to understand that the act of forgiving is not just about releasing the other person from their wrongdoings; it's also about freeing ourselves from the prison of anger, bitterness, and suffering. Scripture Support The virtues and importance of forgiveness are deeply rooted in the Scriptures. In Colossians 3:13 it says, "bearing with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive." This scripture beautifully encapsulates the essence of forgiveness and its importance. Further, in Matthew 12:6, it reads, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." This scripture reinforces Jesus’ teaching of praying for forgiveness, urging us to forgive just as we seek forgiveness. Come on somebody! These scriptures bear the significance of forgiveness, not simply from a moral perspective but from a Biblical perspective. It remind us that just as we seek forgiveness from the Lord for our trespasses, we must also honor the same forgiveness to others. Final Thoughts
All of the forgiveness that God has given to us graciously magnifies the grace that we have in Jesus which is enough for us. Let’s bear many fruits in Jesus by abiding in Him and forgiving all of the people whom we have not forgiven yet. In Matthew 18:22 it says “I tell you, not as many as seven,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven.” It's way beyond just that math equation though, this is spiritual not mathematical. Put it this way, would you want to be under a law that has a contract of a maximum number of times that God will forgive you ultimately? Yeah, me either. So remember to not live under laws but live under the faith in Jesus Christ alone! The forgiveness does not have to be formally to that person either, truly and fully forgiving that person in your own heart is enough. But if you feel lead to, absolutely communicate with the person to let them know how you now feel. The righteous ones prevail (you)!
I pray that this blog post blessed you and freed you! God is so good and gracious! Sign up to our email list to get notified for every new blog post that is released.