“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19:11 NIV
I have a great memory. I’m not trying to boast; it’s just the way God wired me. I still remember the birthdays of classmates from elementary school. I can recall facts and topics from conversations with others fairly readily. And while an impeccable memory can be seen as a gift, it can also be a handicap because it means I can just as easily recall offenses too.
I have always struggled (and continue to fight against) unforgiveness. Those who believe in astrology might say it’s because my moon sign is in Scorpio and they are known to be vindictive and brood. Others might say it’s because God designed me this way and He plans to purify the crap out of my unforgiveness.
No matter the rhyme or reason, God is very clear that we need to overlook offenses — all of ‘em! I know but that person lied to you. I know, but that person caused you physical harm. I know but that person said they’d pay you back, and you haven’t seen a dime. I know, but that person played you for a fool. And the list goes on, and on…
Aren’t you grateful that God doesn’t recount all of your offenses and transgressions that you’ve committed against Him? Aren’t you grateful that God still shows you His love, mercy, tenderness, comfort, and grace despite all the ways your actions and thoughts were counter to His will?
God delights in showing compassion to us when we fall short. “He will again have compassion on us, and will subdue our iniquities. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:19 NKJV) And He expects us to do the same to others: “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32 NKJV)
Reflection
Whom do I need to forgive? What step can I take to demonstrate kindness and compassion to my offender?
Prayer
Lord, turn my heart of stone into a heart of flesh. Make me tender-hearted, seeing and loving others how You see them and love them. Allow me to forgive those who have hurt me because You always forgive me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Photo by Gus Moretta on Unsplash
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