Practicing Forgiveness: Living Like Jesus
Introduction to Practicing Forgiveness
In our previous post, “Living in Love Like Jesus: Embracing His Unconditional Love,” we explored how love is at the heart of Jesus’ ministry and how we are called to live that love in our daily lives. Today, we’re diving deeper into how forgiveness is an extension of that love.
Forgiveness is a powerful and essential part of living like Jesus. It’s one thing to love others through kindness and compassion, but it’s another to love them through forgiveness. Let’s take a look at what forgiveness means, why it’s important, and how we can practice it in our everyday lives, just like Jesus did.
Why Practicing Forgiveness is So Important
The Importance of Forgiveness in Jesus’ Teachings
Forgiveness isn’t just a suggestion from Jesus—it’s a command. Jesus made it clear that forgiveness is a key part of what it means to live like Him. In fact, He ties forgiveness to our own forgiveness from God.
Matthew 6:14-15: “If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Forgiveness is essential to experiencing God’s grace. Jesus reminds us that in order to be forgiven, we must also forgive others. Holding onto bitterness or anger only keeps us from experiencing the peace that forgiveness brings.
How Jesus Showed Us Forgiveness
Jesus’ Example on the Cross
The ultimate example of forgiveness came when Jesus was on the cross. Even in His greatest moment of pain and injustice, Jesus chose to forgive. He didn’t wait for people to apologize or make things right. Instead, He extended forgiveness freely.
Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”
Imagine the immense pain and suffering Jesus endured on the cross. Despite all of that, His response was one of forgiveness. He didn’t hold grudges or seek revenge. Instead, He chose to forgive those who were causing Him immense suffering.
Think about a time when someone deeply hurt you—maybe they lied about you, betrayed you, or said something unkind. Jesus calls us to forgive in these moments, just as He forgave on the cross. Forgiveness doesn’t erase the hurt, but it frees us from its grip and brings peace to our hearts.
Practical Steps for Practicing Forgiveness
Forgive Immediately, Not When It’s Easy
Forgiveness isn’t something that comes naturally, especially when we feel hurt or betrayed. But Jesus calls us to forgive immediately, not when it’s convenient. Holding onto anger only keeps us trapped in bitterness. Choosing to forgive sets us free.
Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
We forgive because Christ forgave us. It’s not about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about making the decision to forgive, even when it’s difficult.
Don’t Wait for an Apology
Forgiving doesn’t mean the other person has to apologize first. Jesus forgave even when people didn’t ask for forgiveness. We are called to forgive, even when the other person hasn’t apologized or acknowledged the wrong.
Practical Tip:
Think about a time when you forgave someone who didn’t apologize. What did that feel like? Forgiving them may have felt hard, but in the end, it probably brought you peace. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself, even when the other person doesn’t deserve it.
Think of forgiveness like cleaning your room. If you wait for the “perfect” time, the mess just keeps piling up. But when you clean it, your space becomes peaceful and fresh again. Similarly, when you choose forgiveness, you clear your heart and mind of negativity, allowing peace to fill you instead.
The Benefits of Practicing Forgiveness
Healing and Freedom
Forgiveness is healing. When we choose to forgive, we release ourselves from the chains of anger and resentment. It frees us from holding onto past pain and allows us to move forward with peace.
I once struggled to forgive someone who had hurt me deeply. Holding onto anger kept me stuck in bitterness. But when I chose to forgive, it wasn’t just for their benefit—it was for mine. Forgiveness gave me the freedom to heal and let go of the past.
Strengthening Relationships
Forgiveness is not just for our own benefit—it’s also for the benefit of our relationships. When we forgive, we restore and strengthen our relationships with others. It’s an act of love that builds trust and shows that we are following Jesus’ example.
Colossians 3:13: “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”
Forgiveness is a Lifestyle, Not a One-Time Act
Forgiveness is a choice we make every day. It’s not always easy, but it’s essential for living like Jesus. By forgiving, we reflect His love and grace, and we create peace in our hearts and relationships. Remember, forgiveness isn’t about forgetting—it’s about releasing the burden of anger and choosing to heal.
Call to Action:
Take a moment to reflect: Is there someone you need to forgive today? Maybe it’s a small offense, or maybe it’s something much larger. Whatever it is, choose forgiveness today. Experience the freedom that comes with letting go of bitterness and embracing peace.
Forgiveness is a powerful choice that brings peace. 💖 We encourage you to take that step today! 🙌 For more inspiration on living like Jesus, Follow and Like our Facebook Page 👍 and join our community by signing up for our monthly newsletter below 📬. Let’s walk this journey of love and forgiveness together! 💫
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