The Art of Forgiveness
- Cindy Dullum
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
As we continue our walk in the sanctification process, let's take a look at forgiveness.
Nelson Mandela is quoted as saying that "Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies."
In an article entitled, *Forgiveness: Letting go of grudges and bitterness, by Mayo Clinic Staff, unforgiveness may cause us to:
bring anger and bitterness into new relationships and experiences
become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can’t enjoy the present
become depressed, irritable or anxious
feel at odds with your spiritual beliefs
lose valuable and enriching connections with others
The same article lists the following benefits to forgiveness:
Healthier relationships
Improved mental health
Less anxiety, stress, and hostility
Fewer symptoms of depression
Lower blood pressure
Improved heart health
Improved self-esteem
It would seem then, that unforgiveness really is like drinking the poison. But let's look at Scripture. What does the Bible say about forgiveness?
Paul tells us in Colossians 3:13 to bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Jesus makes it an essential part of his teaching on prayer in Matthew 6:12 as He's teaches His disciples how to pray.
"And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." He adds in verse 14-15; "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
It would seem then, that God expects us to be vessels of the grace that He has granted us. For we have been forgiven much, therefore we should forgive others.
So, forgiveness is not only good for our body, but it is necessary for our soul. We walk in forgiveness as an act of obedience to God. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into this very important practice of forgiving one another.
Dear Lord, help us to be a people who walk in forgiveness. Remind us that we are forgiven much and as your people, we need to make this our practice, too. Help us to become more and more like you. Teach us, we pray. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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