I Forgive You, I Think

"I forgive you!" 

I've said it, you've said it, everyone has said it; but when we say it do we really mean it? Do we really understand what is required of us? I ask this because in the sentence above forgive is a verb, in fact, it is an action verb. And our many years of schooling has taught us that action verbs requires us to act, to do something. 

Let's do a quick four question self assessment:  

1. Do I wish someone would hurt the person who hurt me? Matthew 5:44

2. Do I treat those who have wronged me differently when I'm around them? Romans 12

3. Have I refuse to help someone in need simply because they have done me wrong? Romans 12

4. Do I speak ill of a person who has wronged me? Philippians 4:8

If you answered yes to any one of these questions beloved, you are walking in unforgiveness! For even God provides for both the sinner and the saint. Matthew 5:45

The truth is, forgiveness has more to do with us then the person we are required to forgive. You see, God told us in His word that if we don't forgive others, He won't forgive us (Matthew 6:15); which clearly means that there is a cost, an extremely high cost might I add, for unforgiveness. 

So wait no more! It's time to forgive that brother and or sister who has done you wrong; who has planned evil for you; who has damaged your reputation and who wants nothing more than to see you fall. Forgive them because God commands it. Forgive them because your eternal destiny depends upon it. Forgive them, forgive them, forgive them!

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, most gracious and precious Father, I come to you today asking for the power to walk in forgiveness. Release me Father from the hurt, the pain, and the torment that resulted when (say their name) broke my heart; and did that which was  unexpected. Give me the strength to follow your example. Provoke me to pray for (say their name) when I don't feel like it. Help me to pray that (say their name) will receive a change of heart and that as a result, he/she will experience a transformation that can only come from an encounter with you. Release (say their name) Father to walk in the love, joy and peace that only comes from your presence. Forgive (say their name) of all his/her sins. Lead him/her down the path of righteousness for your name's sake. Let your word be hidden in his/her heart and make it to be a hedge of protection about him/her so that he/she will not sin against you. Show him/her the error of his/her ways and bring him/her to the place of repentance. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.