Extending Forgiveness

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32 
  
As recipients of God's boundless forgiveness, we are called to extend that same grace to others, even when it seems undeserved. Forgiveness is not about excusing or condoning someone's actions; rather, it is a reflection of the mercy and love that God has shown us.

In Ephesians 4:32, we are reminded to be kind and compassionate, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave us. This command challenges us to let go of bitterness, resentment, and anger, and instead, to choose forgiveness as an act of obedience and love.
 
It's easy to withhold forgiveness when we feel that someone doesn't deserve it or hasn't earned it. But the truth is, none of us deserve the forgiveness that God offers us through Jesus Christ. Yet, He extends it to us freely, out of His great love and mercy.

In the parable of the unforgiving servant, found in Matthew 18:21-35, Jesus illustrates the importance of forgiveness by telling the story of a servant who was forgiven a great debt by his master but refused to forgive a smaller debt owed to him by another servant. The master, upon hearing this, revoked his forgiveness and handed him over to be punished.
 
This parable serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of withholding forgiveness and the importance of extending it to others. Just as God has forgiven us of our sins, we are called to forgive those who have wronged us, regardless of the magnitude of their offense.

Forgiveness is not always easy, and it may require a deliberate choice to release the hurt and pain caused by others. But as we choose to forgive, we experience the freedom and healing that come from obedience to God's Word.
 
I encourage you to embrace the power of forgiveness in your life. Let go of grudges and bitterness and choose to extend grace and mercy to those who have wronged you. In doing so, you not only reflect the love of Christ to others but also experience the transformative power of forgiveness in your own heart and soul.

Just remember God's unfailing love and forgiveness and let it inspire you to forgive others as He has forgiven you. Then you experience the joy and peace that come from walking in obedience to His Word.