Forgiveness

Forgiving those who hurt us is an extremely hard and yet non-negotiable part of being a follower of Jesus. As we have been forgiven by God, so we are to extend forgiveness to others. Every time. But forgiveness is not the same as forgetting, nor does it mean that is always safe or wise to be reconciled or to be in relationship with that person again. Only God’s forgiveness is perfect and final. Forgiveness says, I will let the hurt stop with me. I will absorb it, with God’s help. It’s about breaking the cycle of hurt and vengeance.

Spend some time in prayerful reflection using the prompts below. Linger in God’s presence, sit with him and invite him to be with you and speak to you.

Yourself

• Consider a time when you received forgiveness. What was that like for you?
• Are there any mistakes from your past for which you have been unable to forgive yourself? Talk to Jesus about this and ask him to free you from shame and regret and enable you to forgive yourself and fully receive his forgiveness. You might find it helpful to use the Confession resource.
• Is there anyone in my past or present whom I have wronged? Did I reconcile with this person? What might it look like to ask for their forgiveness?
• What experiences have affected your ability to give and receive forgiveness?
• Where might healing prayer address wounds in your own soul?

Others

• When others hurt or disappoint you, how do you tend to view them?
• When is it particularly hard for you to forgive?
• Consider a time with you forgave someone. What was that like for you? How do you imagine it felt for them?
• Invite God to search your heart and bring to mind any recent offense that you have experienced. Is there anyone who you are currently harboring unforgiveness towards? Bring this into conversation with Jesus and ask for his help to let go and release them.
• Jesus invites us not only to forgive but to bless those who persecute us. What would it look like for you to speak words of blessing in prayer over those who have caused you pain?

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” - Matthew 5:23-24

This scripture expresses that becoming reconciled to a brother or sister in Christ when something has come ‘between you’ is more important than bringing your offering of worship. As a church family, we want to hold short accounts and keep no record of wrongs. We want to be quick to forgive and extend mercy and compassion towards each other, particularly when it comes to minor offenses.

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