We have discussed sharing and caring during this beautiful season of Thanksgiving. Now for one of the most critical areas we need to address in this season is forgiveness. Do you know how important it is to forgive? Have you ever thought about who truly benefits from forgiveness? Let me tell you, forgiving others is the only way we can ensure that God will forgive us for our many sins. We cannot expect from God what we are not willing to give to others. “Thanksgiving-A Season to Forgive!”
Without a doubt, life has brought about so many changes for us. Not many things remain the same, but what will always remain true is God’s love for us. Because He loves us, He forgives us over and over again for our wrongdoings. His compassion and mercy fail us not day by day. So, with that in mind, we must learn no matter how hard it may be to forgive those who have wronged us. You might be thinking about how you can forgive when the person who has hurt you continues to do so. Or, the infraction was so painful that the sting of it is not quickly gone. This season is “Thanksgiving-A Season to Forgive!”
However, is anything worth the separation of your relationship with God? God does not dwell in unkindness, revenge, dislike, or any ill feelings toward others. Today is the day to look beyond the faults of others and see Jesus. What did Jesus do on the cross? He stayed there and died for not any wrongdoing of His own, but for ours and generations to come. I believe you have a clear picture of the point I am trying to make. “Thanksgiving-A Season to Forgive!”
To summarize, we need to forgive because forgiveness will render us freedom. As long as we have an unforgiving heart, the deed of others will always hold us captive. Who wants to be in bondage, not I? Neither do you. Let this post serve as a reminder that we need to forgive anyone who has hurt us. Don’t categorize the hurt or pain; ask God to give you a forgiving heart. He will if you are sincere in wanting to forgive others.
Lastly, if there are things you have done, forgive yourself and move on. Don’t keep yourself in emotional bondage. We have so much to be grateful for, and there is no time for unforgiveness. Utilize this season to love, care, share and forgive. “Thanksgiving- A Season to Forgive!” Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. St. Matthew 18: 21-22. I’ll be back next week with a new post, “Stay In Touch With The Ones Who Love You!”
Be encouraged, and God bless!
Sister Jackie