Emmanuel* was on the wrong road. Though raised in a Christian family, he decided to take a detour down a dead end road. Drugs cost him a place to stay when his parents discovered he was using at home. His uncle seemed his only hope, but he quickly messed that up too. While they were away, he stole a priceless family heirloom and a gun and hocked them both for drug money. Uncle Jamie* discovered the missing shotgun which started a search to see if other items were missing. And they were.
When confronted, Emmanuel was in no mood to talk and immediately denied the thefts. Jamie had no choice. He was his nephew but he was untrustworthy. So he did what Emmanuel’s parents did-put him out.
Jamie could have reported the theft and made his nephew pay. Perhaps even had him jailed. He chose to suffer the loss, forgive and maintain the relationship-although from a guarded post.
John ties love of God and forgiveness together: If anyone says, “I love God,” yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. (I John 4:20)
Some propose the ability to love God and withhold forgiveness. I’ve tried it several times and known numerous others who have too. Some convincing themselves they have succeeded in doing the impossible. Others not aware they are even trying.
True love is only comprehended by understanding God’s forgiveness. When I comprehend my sin’s offense against God and realize his willingness to forgive completely and permanently, it becomes impossible to withhold from others what God has unconditionally given. Forgiving others enables me to see God’s face in them as Jacob did in his brother Esau’s. When I forgive-whether people deserve it or not, I learn to appreciate God’s forgiveness.
Instant and continual forgiveness heals relationships-with others and God.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, guide us to those we need to forgive.
*Names changed to protect privacy.
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You are right - when we forgive those who have hurt us (just as the Lord directs us to do) we are better able to appreciate God's forgiveness of us. Forgiveness also frees our heart and enables us to truly love!
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Joan
Forgiveness can be so hard but it is such a testimony of the work of God in our lives when we can.
ReplyDeleteFound you through Sharing His Beauty link-up.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful piece about forgiveness on Creative Monday. I do a lot of inspirational reading and it has helped me face serious challenges in my life. I am happy to become a new Follower of your Blog.
ReplyDeleteJudy - JUDY H-J'S THOUGHTS
Thank you for reminding me once again of the importance of forgiveness. God bless :-)
ReplyDeleteIt is very nice to be reminded that forgiveness should be a given for us, considering the magnitude of what you've written. No matter how difficult it is, we can do with God' help.
ReplyDeleteForgiving is such a tough thing for me. But oh! The freedom! Thank you Jesus!
ReplyDelete