How convicting is that?! Forgiveness has been a strong theme in my life over the past year or so; I know that God is teaching me something. Little by little I have asked God for help with forgiving certain "wrongs" or certain people. Then something happens that fires me up again, and I realize I haven't forgiven them that much after all. Sometimes my own sin is so clear to me.
I know that I should forgive. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). In light of my sin, how can I think that I deserve anything but death? Still, Jesus went to the cross for me, and He calls me to follow Him, growing more and more like Him.
I know that I should love and pray for my enemies (Matthew 5:44). I have learned through experience that my heart can change toward someone--yes, even toward an "enemy"--through prayer. What if instead of wishing someone the worst, you prayed for him and believed that your heart could change toward him?
I don't have the answers on this one. Forgiveness is tough, and it becomes even harder as bitterness takes root. But God's grace is enough.
Please share your thoughts.
